Achilles Tendon Injuries: Symptoms, Causes, and Recovery Tips

 

Achilles Tendon Injuries:

 Symptoms, Causes, and

 Recovery Tips

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon, also known as the calcaneal tendon, runs down the back of your lower leg, connecting the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles (the calf muscles) to the heel bone. It enables you to point your toes downward, push off the ground, and maintain balance during movement.

What are the Types of Achilles Tendon Injuries?

  1. Achilles Tendonitis – Inflammation of the tendon due to overuse or repetitive stress. It often affects runners and people who suddenly increase their activity levels.

  2. Achilles Tendinosis – Chronic degeneration of the tendon fibers caused by long-term stress and lack of healing. It can lead to thickening or stiffness of the tendon.

  3. Achilles Tendon Rupture – A partial or complete tear of the tendon, often resulting from a sudden, forceful movement. This is a serious injury that may require surgical intervention.

What are the Common Causes of Achilles Tendon Injuries?

Achilles injuries can develop due to a combination of overuse, improper technique, or underlying medical conditions. Here are the major causes:

1. Overuse or Sudden Increase in Activity

Starting an intense workout or sports routine without proper conditioning can overload the tendon, leading to inflammation or microtears.

2. Poor Footwear

Wearing shoes without proper arch or heel support increases strain on the Achilles tendon, especially during running or jumping activities.

3. Tight Calf Muscles

If your calf muscles are tight, the tendon experiences extra stress during movement, increasing the risk of injury.

4. Improper Stretching or Warm-Up

Skipping warm-ups before exercise or not stretching the lower legs properly makes the tendon less flexible and more vulnerable to strain.

5. Repetitive Motions

Activities that involve repetitive jumping or running, especially on hard surfaces, can cause cumulative tendon damage.

6. Age and Degeneration

As you age, the tendon naturally loses elasticity and strength, making older adults more prone to Achilles problems.

7. Medical Conditions

Certain conditions like arthritis, obesity, or the use of steroid medications can weaken the tendon structure and increase the likelihood of injury.

What are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

Recognizing the signs early helps prevent worsening of the condition. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain or tenderness at the back of the heel or lower calf

  • Swelling or stiffness around the tendon area

  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

  • A “snapping” or “popping” sound (in case of a rupture)

  • Difficulty standing on your toes or pushing off the foot

  • Redness or warmth along the tendon.

Diagnosis: How Doctors Identify Achilles Tendon Injuries

To diagnose an Achilles tendon injury, your orthopedic specialist or sports medicine doctor will:

  1. Physically examine the affected leg, checking for tenderness, swelling, or gaps along the tendon.

  2. Perform the Thompson Test – squeezing the calf muscle to see if the foot moves. If it doesn’t, a rupture is likely.

  3. Recommend imaging tests such as:

    • Ultrasound to visualize tendon structure

    • MRI to detect tears or degeneration

    • X-rays to rule out bone-related issues

Accurate diagnosis ensures the right treatment approach for a faster and complete recovery.

Recovery Timeline and Rehabilitation

Recovery varies depending on the injury’s severity and treatment method. Here’s a general timeline:

  • Mild Tendonitis: 2–6 weeks with rest, therapy, and stretching.

  • Moderate Injury or Partial Tear: 6–12 weeks with structured physiotherapy.

  • Surgical Repair (Rupture): 4–6 months for full recovery with gradual return to sports.

Rehabilitation Focus:

  1. Gradual stretching and strengthening exercises

  2. Balance and stability training

  3. Progressive weight-bearing under professional supervision

  4. Avoiding premature return to intense activity

Consistency with rehab exercises is the key to regaining mobility and preventing re-injury.

What are the Tips to Prevent Achilles Tendon Injuries?

Prevention is always better than treatment. Follow these habits to keep your Achilles tendon strong and flexible:

  1. Warm up before workouts — never start intense activity without stretching your calves and ankles.

  2. Increase intensity gradually — avoid sudden jumps in running distance or workout load.

  3. Choose supportive footwear — especially if you run or play sports.

  4. Strengthen calf muscles — strong calves reduce strain on the tendon.

  5. Take rest days — let your body recover between workouts.

  6. Maintain a healthy weight — reduces stress on your lower limbs.

  7. Replace old shoes — worn-out soles can increase the risk of strain.


For More Information
Dr. Aditya Somayaji Orthopedic Kondapur, Hyderabad
Contact: +91 8328504271 

Visit: https://dradityaorthospecialist.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAdityaOrtho
Instagram:  dradityaortho

Address: flat no. 101, SS plaza, opposite APARNA TOWERS, Hanuman Nagar, Kothaguda, Hyderabad, Telangana 500084

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