What Are the Causes?
The following can result in an Achilles injury:
Tendonitis
The overuse or damage of the area may eventually lead to tendonitis. It swells and may cause a painful feeling at the back of your leg, as well as the heel area. The tendon can thicken and stiffen due to this, which worsens the pain and the overall condition.
There are two types of tendonitis:
Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis. This type of tendonitis takes place when small tears in the middles fibers of the tendon start to break the tendon down. Younger adults who have an active lifestyle may experience some pain and swelling.
Insertional Achilles tendonitis. People at any age or fitness level may experience this type. Bone spurs (extra bone growth) have the tendency to develop when the damage takes place at the spot where the tendon and heel bone meet.
Rupture
You should immediately seek medical attention when there is already a partial break (or tear) in the tendon. A rupture may also be identified when you hear a sharp popping sound or feel a popping sensation coming from the leg or heel bone.
How To Treat It
An Achilles injury can be treated by using the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). But some cases may need more than that such as:
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Surgery
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