Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis is a common injury among athletes of all ages. In fact, it is said to account for nearly eleven percent of all running injuries! The Achilles Tendon is the largest tendon in the human body, inserting in the large calf muscles Gastronemius and Soleus, and into the heel bone. It allows you to stand up on your tiptoes and walk. People with Achilles Tendonitis may experience shooting or burning pains up the back of their ankle and leg, particularly in the morning or when they take their first steps after sitting for long periods of time. In some cases, a fluid sac may also appear on or around the tendon.
Causes
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis include overuse of the tendon through prolonged strenuous exercise, overpronation of the foot, wearing poorly fitting shoes, not stretching properly prior to exercising, being overweight, and Supination.
Prevention
Some ways to prevent achilles tendonitis - wearing heel lifts or arch supports, properly stretching the tendon before exercise, avoiding wearing high heels which shorten the tendon, avoid running/walking up hills, and applying ice to the tendon after exercising.
