Achilles Tendonitis
/ʌkɪliz/
1. [noun] the Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and is used when you walk, run, climb stairs, jump, and stand on your tip toes. Simply defined, tendinitis is inflammation of a tendon. Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or disease, and often causes swelling, pain, or irritation. There are two types of Achilles tendinitis, based upon which part of the tendon is inflamed. Noninsertional Achilles tendinitis Noninsertional Achilles Tendinitis In noninsertional Achilles tendinitis, fibers in the middle portion of the tendon have begun to break down with tiny tears (degenerate), swell, and thicken. Tendinitis of the middle portion of the tendon more commonly affects younger, active people. Insertional Achilles Tendinitis Insertional Achilles tendinitis Insertional Achilles tendinitis involves the lower portion of the heel, where the tendon attaches (inserts) to the heel bone. In both noninsertional and insertional Achilles tendinitis, damaged tendon fibers may also calcify (harden). Bone spurs (extra bone growth) often form with insertional Achilles tendinitis. Tendinitis that affects the insertion of the tendon can occur at any time, even in patients who are not active. More often than not, however, it comes from years of overuse (long distance runners, sprinters)
Source: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/achilles-tendinitis
Frequently Asked Questions
How do inflammation types differ between the mid-tendon and the heel attachment in Achilles issues?
Mid-tendon inflammation affects central fibers and is common in younger, active individuals, while heel insertion inflammation occurs where the tendon meets the bone and may involve additional bone spur formation. This highlights a distinct regional difference in the tendon.
Which everyday foot movements highlight the Achilles tendon's role and potential for irritation?
Common activities like running, climbing stairs, and standing on tiptoes engage the Achilles tendon significantly. These everyday movements demonstrate how important the tendon is in connecting the calf muscles to the heel.
Why might some people mistakenly believe Achilles tendon irritation only happens to athletes?
Although young, active people often experience mid-tendon irritation, heel insertion issues can occur in less active individuals as well. This counters the misconception that Achilles problems are exclusive to high-impact athletes.