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Why Foot Pain Caused by Achilles Tendonitis Can Be Beaten With Insoles
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The tendon that connects the muscles of the calf with those in the heel, the Achilles tendon, is one of the most important tendons in the body. Without the ability of this tendon to deal with massive pressure, sometimes several times the weight of the body, humans will not be able to walk, run or jump. Achilles tendonitis can develop when the tendon becomes inflamed and tender, usually because of injuries, and this can cause foot pain. How Does the Condition Come About?
Younger people who partake in strenuous physical activity and who fail to do warm-up exercises may place undue pressure on the tendon, and thus develop Achilles tendonitis. Younger people that develop this condition often take part in sports and physical activities that require jumping and sudden sprints. Inflammation that leads to this condition can quickly develop in cases of physical injury to the ankle, calf or lower leg. Sometimes new bone grows at the base of the heel and this growth may prove to be an irritant to the tendon, eventually leading to Achilles tendonitis in older people.
Which Factors Indicate Achilles Tendonitis?
One of the surest indicators of Achilles tendonitis is severe foot pain or pain behind the heel. The pain from this condition is typically worse when the muscles have been inactive for some time, especially first thing in the morning and after sitting down for some time. Most patients report tenderness and swelling in the area of the tendon, and jumping or pushing often result in sever, sudden pain. Standing on the toes is often excruciating.
What are the Options for Treatment?
The condition is relatively easy to treat with insoles and most cases are concluded with complete success. Patients are advised to rest in order to allow the inflammation to subside, and in some cases, the entire foot is immobilized by means of a cast. A special shoe insole is often used to raise the affected heel slightly, thereby lessening the pressure on the heel itself. Most patient find that the improvement of the blood flow, achieved by using an ice pack, can lessen foot pain considerably for short periods. Anti-inflammatory medication can contribute towards bringing the infection under control, and shoe insoles may also help to lessen the pain.
Patients are strongly advised to take part in physical therapy where special stretching and building exercises are done in order to strengthen the muscles and to make them much more supple. Surgery is not readily undertaken, and most foot specialists prefer to first exhaust all other options. Surgery is usually performed in order to remove the infected part of the tendon and to ensure that the remaining healthy part is re-attached to the heel.
Can Achilles Tendonitis be Prevented?
Foot pain due to Achilles tendonitis can often be avoided by following the basic rules of stretching and warming up before starting any serious exercise. Strong muscles and tendons that are kept flexible with regular aerobic exercises are less likely to be injured.
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