The term Achilles tendonitis refers to a condition occurring with inflammation or irritation of Achilles tendon most commonly as a result of too much of strain and pressure on it. Basketball and other sports activities cause too much of strain on Achilles tendon as well as calf muscles leading to inflammation and irritation.
Achilles tendon comprises large band of tissues. The muscles existing in the back of the calf are connected with the heel bone through these tissues. Achilles tendon helps the body in walking, running, jumping. It also helps in pushing up on toes.
Achilles tendonitis may also occur due to rigorous and frequent exercise. With instant treatment, Achilles tendonitis lasts for a short time. But if it is not treated early, it not only becomes very painful but also causes tearing (rupture) on your tendon. In such a case you may have to undergo surgery for correction of damage.
Fortunately, it is possible to get relief from pain and inflammation by taking rest and medications that are available over the counter.
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis gradually shows its signs and symptoms.
A person with Achilles tendonitis may feel mild ache or pain particularly when he pushes off his foot. Pain may also occur with lifting of toes.
Achilles tendonitis also makes Achilles tendon very painful to touch.
The stiffness of Achilles tendon and development of bump on it are the other symptoms of Achilles tendonitis.
Because of Achilles tendonitis the tendon produces crackling or creaking sound when it is touched or moved.
While getting up in the morning or after rest, you may feel soreness in the affected tendon. This soreness goes away as you begin to move around. But the increase in your activity level may aggravate the soreness.
The partial rupture in your Achilles tendon may show sign of sudden and intense pain. The area near your heel also becomes swollen making it difficult for you to bend your foot downward besides hampering normal walking.
With complete rupture of your tendon you will find it impossible to lift your toes of the affected leg.
Visit your doctor as soon as you feel rupture in your Achilles tendon after observing all those signs and symptoms.
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