Understanding Achilles tendon: your guide to treatment and recovery

The Achilles tendon, located at the back of your ankle, plays a crucial role in enabling movement. However, when it becomes injured, inflamed or degenerated, it can lead to discomfort and mobility challenges. Leading consultant foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon Mr Georgios Kiziridis explores the intricacies of the Achilles tendon, common issues associated with it, and steps for treatment and recovery.

Anatomy of the Achilles tendon

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It facilitates various movements such as walking, running, and jumping. When you push off the ground with your foot, the Achilles tendon bears the load, allowing you to move forward smoothly.

What are the common issues linked to Achilles tendon?

Achilles tendon problems commonly arise due to overuse, sudden increases in activity levels, or inadequate warm-up before exercise. Two prevalent conditions affecting the Achilles tendon are:

Achilles tendonitis: This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often due to repetitive stress. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, and swelling around the tendon.

Achilles tendinopathy: Tendinopathy refers to degeneration or damage within the tendon. This is the most common condition (degeneration instead of inflammation). It can result from chronic overuse, leading to pain and reduced function. If left untreated, tendinopathy may progress to more severe conditions like tendon tears.

What are the treatment options?

Effective management of Achilles tendon issues typically involves a combination of rest, rehabilitation, and medical intervention. Here are some common treatment options:

Rest and activity modification: Giving the tendon adequate rest is crucial for healing. Avoid activities that exacerbate pain and opt for low-impact exercises to maintain fitness without straining the tendon.

Physical therapy: A tailored exercise programme prescribed by a physiotherapist can strengthen the muscles surrounding the Achilles tendon, improve flexibility, and promote healing.

Orthotic devices: In some cases, wearing orthotic inserts or heel lifts in your shoes can alleviate strain on the Achilles tendon and support proper foot alignment.

Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen may help reduce pain and inflammation, but they are not very efficient generally in the management of Achilles problems and they should be used under medical supervision.

Injections: Corticosteroid injections have a few and very specific indications and are rarely used to alleviate pain and inflammation, as they can cause rupture of the Achilles tendon.

How can Achilles tendon be prevented?

Prevention is key to avoiding Achilles tendon issues. You should incorporate proper warm-up and cool-down routines into your exercise regimen, gradually increase intensity and duration of activities, wear appropriate footwear, and listen to your body's signals of fatigue or discomfort.

Understanding the Achilles tendon and adopting proactive measures can help mitigate the risk of injury and promote optimal recovery. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your Achilles tendon, consult a healthcare professional for tailored guidance and treatment.

If you would like to book a consultation with Mr Kiziridis, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today.