ACHILLES TENDONITIS
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is an acute, inflammatory injury of the Achilles tendon that most commonly affects athletes, especially runners, or people who play sports that require lots of starting and stopping, such as tennis. But it can happen to anyone.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
The prominent symptom of Achilles tendonitis is pain, often described as burning, that worsens with activity. The location of the pain may vary—it can be felt closer to the bottom of the calf muscle, along the actual tendon, or lower down near the heel bone. Along with pain, there may be mild swelling and warmth over the Achilles tendon, as well as morning stiffness in both the heel and calf that eases as a person warms up and stretches their ankle and leg.
Causes for Achilles Tendonitis
- Sneakers that are worn-out or are not meant to be used for aerobic exercise
- Cold weather training
- Foot misalignment or flat fleet
- Poor running form
- Leg length discrepancy
- Development of a bony growth on the back of the ankle
- Having a medical condition like psoriasis, high blood pressure, and obesity
When to see a podiatrist?
- Leg or ankle stiffness or soreness
- Swelling over the Achilles tendon
- Difficulty standing on your tiptoes
- Signs of an infection like redness or warmth around the ankle or leg
Treatments for Achilles Tendonitis
There are numerous treatments involved with treating Achilles tendon pain, including activity modification, orthotics and physical therapy. The key to healing and recovering well is to keep on top of your care and follow your therapy regimen from start to finish.
Is the Achilles Tendonitis treatment covered by Private Health Insurances?
Call us to find out whether Achilles tendonitis treatment is covered by your private health care provider. There are a few things to consider with your private health fund such as your level of cover, your policy waiting periods, annual limits and fund rules. It is important to know what you are up for prior to your visits to avoid unwanted, expensive surprises.