The Achilles tendon is the thickest strongest tendon in the human body.  There are more pounds per square inch going across the Achilles tendon than any other tendon.  It is important to realize that during an active gait cycle the Achilles tendon is under chronic mechanical load.  This tendon in general can become overused and is usually attributed to an increase in activity or change in activities.

The most common cause of Achilles tendon pain is what is described as watershed region Achilles tendinitis.  I encountered this in a lot of people that have begun to run or do plyometrics type activities like box jumping or jumping rope.  I encouraged people not to plunge into new activities to begin to train slowly.  With activities the changing and loading of the Achilles tendon can lead to Achilles tendinitis-type problems.  Typically this will present as pain and swelling in the Achilles tendon.  Oftentimes patients will experience increased pain that they try to push through this in addition they are at the risk of rupturing the Achilles tendon during this time.

It is extremely important that anytime a patient has Achilles tendon pain medicines evaluated by a physician.  Long-term wear and tear can delay the return to normal activities.  The longer patients have had these conditions there is a correlation with the longer it takes to recover.  Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common pathologies that I see if with recent developments in treatment protocols patients can return to activities sooner.

Sincerely,

Dr. Brandon Nelson

Board-Certified Foot and Ankle Physician and Surgeon