SPORTS KNOWLEDGE ACHILLES TENDONITIS Minh Anh Table of contents What is achilles tendonitis? Symptoms Causes . Preventation Treatment WHAT IS ACHILLES TENDONITIS? Achilles tendonitis is a condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is responsible for helping you push off the ground when you walk or run. Possible causes of Achilles Tendonitis Suddenly increasing your activity level: If you start running or playing sports more often or more intensely than usual, you may be more likely to develop Achilles tendonitis. Repetitive activities: Any activity that puts repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon can lead to inflammation, such as running, jumping, and climbing stairs. Flat feet or high arches: These foot conditions can put extra stress on the Achilles tendon. Tight calf muscles: Tight calf muscles can pull on the Achilles tendon and make it more likely to become inflamed. Wearing improper footwear: Shoes that don't fit well or don't provide enough support can increase your risk of Achilles tendonitis. Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis PREVENTATION FOR ACHILLES TENDONITIS Warm up before exercise for at least 5-10 minutes. This could include walking, jogging, or doing dynamic stretches such as leg swings and arm circles. Stretch your calf muscles regularly, both before and after exercise. Some good calf stretches include the standing calf stretch, seated calf stretch, and stair calf stretch. Wear shoes that fit well and provide good support. The shoes should have a cushioned heel and a firm arch support. Avoid shoes that are too worn out or too tight. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. This is especially important if you are new to exercise or are returning to exercise after a break. Listen to your body and stop the activity if you experience pain in the back of your heel. Treatment Achilles tendonitis is usually treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Other treatments may include physical therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In some serious cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a damaged Achilles tendon. THANK YOU! Do you have any questions? Sources Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achillestendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369020 Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21553-achilles-tendinitis AAOS: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/symptomscauses/syc-20369020 NIH: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/symptomscauses/syc-20369020 WebMD: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/symptomscauses/syc-20369020
