If you are experiencing pain and discomfort at the back of your foot, just above the heel, you may be suffering from Achilles Tendonitis. This condition affects the Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the entire body and connects the leg muscles to the foot as it stretches from the lower part of the calf to the heel bone. This tendon is critical to normal walking patterns as it raises the heel off the ground and flexes the ankle downward to propel your body forward.
Achilles Tendonitis typically develops gradually and is a result of trauma to the tendon, the tendon sheath, or both. The inflammation that develops may be categorized as peritonitis (a localized pain during or after activity), tendinosis (an asymptomatic stage that may result in a nodule, and is known to cause swelling at the back of the leg), or peritenonitis with tendinosis (this may lead to a rupture of the tendon and it is characterized by pain and swelling during and after activity). As with many health conditions, Achilles Tendonitis is best treated early in the development of the condition. If you are experiencing pain and/or swelling in this region, a consultation with our experienced Chiropodists/Foot Specialists will give you the best chance for a full recovery.