Achilles tendonitis

Synonyms

Achilles tendinitis.

Definition

Inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Etiology is usually mechanical, including incorrect running technique, overuse, or poorly fitting shoes. Other causes include rheumatic conditions predisposing to tendonitis such as spondyloarthropathies.

Therapy

Pharmacological

Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may often be useful to treat pain associated with tendon inflammation and pain. Some physicians perform glucocorticoid injections at the site of tendon inflammation, which may also be therapeutic. Caution must be taken not to directly inject into the tendon itself (often associated with a high degree of resistance), as this may increase the risk of tendon rupture.

Non-pharmacological

Many physicians recommend application of ice in the first 24–48 hours following a tendon injury. Heat is often used following that time, although no optimal regimen for these modalities exist. Although rest or even immobilization (often with a splint or sling) of an...