Common Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

Staying active is a critical component of good health, but the more physical activity you engage in, the greater your risk of musculoskeletal issues. Fortunately, residents of Shrewsbury and Toms River, New Jersey, have access to a highly skilled team of orthopaedic specialists at Performance Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine. 

If you’ve noticed changes in how your body feels during or after exercise or exertion, don’t hesitate to schedule a diagnostic exam. Letting musculoskeletal issues linger without treatment can complicate matters down the line. 

Here’s what you need to know about how most cases of Achilles tendonitis develop and how you can lower your risk of this common sports medicine condition. 

How your Achilles tendon keeps you moving

Your Achilles tendon is a thick band of connective tissue that joins your heel bone to your calf muscles. This tendon is engaged every time you stand, walk, jump, climb, or run. When that tendon is damaged or wears down, it can become inflamed. 

This inflammation is the source of the painful symptoms of Achilles tendonitis. Inflammation is your body’s most common reaction to disease or injury. While the resulting discomfort can be challenging to deal with, it is also the body’s warning sign that something is amiss and gives you a chance to address the problem in the earlier stages. 

Here are some signs you might have Achilles tendonitis

Knowing what to look for can help you know when it’s time to seek help for yourself or a loved one. The following symptoms are common among people with Achilles tendonitis:

• Pain in your heel or ankle
• Stiff or tender Achilles tendon
• Sensation of leg weakness
• Swelling near your heel or the back of your lower leg
• Pain after exercising
• Pain that’s worse in the morning and gets better throughout the day
• Pain that worsens as you climb stairs or walk uphill

Anyone can experience Achilles tendonitis, even if you don’t have an active lifestyle. However, the majority of people who develop this condition are active in fitness or athletic pursuits. 

Don’t push too far beyond your body’s limits

We all know that achieving fitness or athletic goals requires pushing the limits of what your body can do. But it’s absolutely possible to push too far, too fast. Putting undue strain on your Achilles tendon is a leading cause of Achilles tendonitis. 

When you’re planning to increase the intensity of your workouts or training, be careful to avoid going too far, too fast. Set incremental goals and celebrate your achievements as they come. Your body will have time to adapt to an increased workload, and your muscles and connective tissues will be able to prepare for the additional strain. 

Embrace healthy fitness habits

Everyone could benefit from assessing their fitness and workout habits and looking for areas where improvements can be made. That is especially true when it comes to musculoskeletal issues. 

Something as simple as taking the time to stretch and warm up your body before exercise can significantly reduce your risk of injury. When you’re planning your workouts, try to use a variety of exercises to avoid placing too much strain on any one part of your body, including your Achilles tendons. 

Finding a great pair of athletic trainers is also essential. The proper footwear will not only support and protect your feet but also provide stability and balance for the rest of your body. If you’re unsure about which options work best for your foot shape and preferred activities, consider visiting a shop that specializes in high-quality athletic footwear and has staff trained to assist you. 

Already experiencing symptoms?

If you’re already noticing changes in the way your feet or lower legs feel or function, schedule a visit at Performance Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine. You’ll meet with a highly skilled specialist to discuss your symptoms and begin a diagnostic work-up. 

There are treatments that can help, and we can also discuss ways to reduce your risk of future musculoskeletal injuries. Feel free to call us at 732-691-4898 to schedule a visit or book online.