Hello everyone!
Keeping up with the theme of this week, dealing with injury, I am going to take a look into another common injury; Achilles Tendinitis.
I have never experienced this injury, however, it is possible if I do not use proper running technique, or take care of my body. So lets dive into what exactly Achilles Tendinitis is, how it happens, and how to prevent it.
What is Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles Tendinitis is the large tendon connecting the two major calf muscles to the back of the heel bone. If it is under too much stress, the tendon will tighten and cause it to work too hard. In turn, this causes the tendon to get inflamed. The injury is chacharacterized by a dull or sharp pain anywhere along the back of the tendon, but usually close to the heel.
Causes of Achilles Tendinitis
- Tight, or fatigued calf muscles
- Can be brought on by not stretching the calves properly
- Increasing mileage too quickly or simply overtraining
- Excessive hill running or speedwork
- Inflexible running shoes
- Overpronation
Prevention and Treatment
If you start experiencing Achilles pain, stop running. Take an aspirin or ibuprofen and ice the area several times per day to reduce inflammation. Massaging the area may help as well. Don’t start running again until you can do toe raises without pain. The best way to prevent this from happening is to properly stretch you calves and shins.
This injury is very similar to shin splints. If you do not take the proper measures to recovery from injuries it will hinder your exercise and could possibly damage the muscles in that area long term. Long story short, take care of your body, and your body will take care of you.