Achilles Tendinopathy- Frequently Asked Questions

There are several running injuries that may be completely prevented if only runners will have ample time to learn more about them. Getting a running injury is never fun because it can hinder you from achieving your fitness goals and it can greatly affect your running performance. One of the running injuries that may be prevented by taking proper measures is a condition called Achilles tendinopathy.

If you want to learn more about this condition and how to totally prevent it, then read on the following frequently asked questions about Achilles tendinopathy:

1. What is Achilles tendinopathy?

Achilles tendinopathy, also called Achilles tendonitis, is a condition that often occurs to runners aging 40 years old and above. However, some runners may also experience this at an earlier time with continuous exposure to causative factors. This injury is characterized by an inflammatory and degenerative condition of the Achilles tendon found at the back of the heel.

2. How does this occur?

Stress is the main factor that causes this injury. When the tendon is exposed to a great deal of stress, it can work hard and tighten. When this is not corrected, the tendon might wear and tear losing its normal tensile strength. This causes the pain and inflammation. However, the tendon may be covered with scar tissues, which further decrease its efficiency. With prolonged stress exposure, the tendon may eventually rupture.

3. What factors cause this injury?

There are several factors that might cause stress on the Achilles tendon. First, this may be due to poor stretching techniques that can cause tightening of the calf muscles, which then transfers the burden to the tendon. The calf muscles and the tendon may also be over fatigued due to excessive training or rapid progression in the running regimen. Excessive hill running, overpronation, and use of improper running shoes can also stress the Achilles tendon.

4. What are the manifestations of this condition?

Achilles tendinopathy is mainly characterized by pain on the back of the heel. The pain may be sharp or dull in nature and it may be worse when waking up in the morning and under on-going physical activity. Redness and warmth may be noted on the skin around the affected area. The tendon may also feel tender when touched. Sometimes, there may be an appearance of nodule, which is a sign of scarred tendon.

5. How do you prevent Achilles tendonitis?

This condition may be prevented if the above factors that cause this injury are avoided. Thus, runners should do proper warm-up and stretching technique before and after running to relax the calf muscle and Achilles tendon. Training errors should be avoided. Aside from that, this injury may be avoided through the use of proper running shoes based on the runner's foot type.