Achilles tendinitis

Overview

The Achilles tendon links the calf to the heel.

Doing too much too fast strains it.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pain at the back of the heel
• Pain at the back of the heel or ankle

Less common

• Morning stiffness

Look up a symptom: Foot pain · Heel or arch pain, worst with first steps · Joints stiff after rest or in the morning · Pain at the back of the heel or ankle

When to get medical care

Causes

Overuse, tight calves, and some antibiotics (fluoroquinolones).

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Runners
• Middle age

Diagnosis

A clinician examines the heel.

The exam

Pressing on the tendon.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ultrasound or MRI: If a tear is possible.

Treatment

Rest and stretch.

Self-care

• Rest from activities that hurt
• Ice for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day
• Raise the area when you can
• Do calf stretches and heel drops
• Wear shoes with a slight heel

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Warm up
• Increase activity slowly

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor) or a sports medicine doctor.
• A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually heals in weeks to months.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Achilles tendinitis