Achilles tendon pain is caused by either an acute injury or long-term overuse. An acute injury is sometimes caused by a tear in the tendon, resulting in bleeding and swelling, which also causes pain. Tight calf muscles can be another cause of Achilles tendon pain.
Common symptoms include morning stiffness, pain during and after activity, tenderness and/or swelling over the tendon, clicking sensations during movement, reduced strength, and limping. Achilles tendon problems often affect athletes at both recreational and elite levels, such as track and field athletes involved in running and jumping. Common causes include repetitive strain, increased training volume, changing surfaces, overpronation, tight calf muscles, reduced joint function in the ankle, and poor footwear.
Read more about heel and Achilles tendon problems at 1177 Vårdguiden.
A naprapath will help you assess the nature and severity of the injury. If there is no suspicion of an underlying cause, the naprapath will begin treatment aimed at restoring normal mobility in the foot joints and reducing any muscle tension. Treatment then focuses on strength and mobility exercises, including stretching. A rehabilitation program is important, and in some cases, a heel wedge can be placed in the shoe to reduce strain on the tendon while walking.
