Achilles tendonitis

Patient presents with pain along the Achilles tendon
Also complains of the following symptoms:
-Swelling of the skin over the tendon with warmth, redness and tenderness
-Pain when rising up on the toes and pain with pushing off on the toes
-Painful heel for the first few minutes of walking and waking up in the morning
-Stiffness of the ankle which improves with mild activity

On Examination:

Patient has tenderness to palpation over the Achilles tendon

Clinical impression: Achilles tendinitis

Management:

1. gentle calf stretching
2. strengthening of the Achilles tendon
3. Eccentric calf raises
4. May need to consider heel raise or orthotics if pain does not settle
5. as symptoms resolve, resumed normal weight-bearing activities gradually
6. avoid running until the tenderness is gone. Swimming or cycling in low gear a good replacement activities

Prevention of Achillies Tendonitis:

- do strengthening and stretching exercises to keep calf muscle strong and flexible
- Keep your hamstring muscles flexible by stretching
- stretch adequately before participating in any sports
- Weight increase the intensity and duration of training gradually
- Do not continue an exercise if experiencing pain over the tendon
-Wear properly fitted running and other sports shoes, including properly fitted arch supports if your feet roll inwards excessively

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