Achilles tendonitis, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

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Achilles tendonitis:

Achilles Tendonitis is a condition caused by the overuse of that Achilles tendon, It is actually inflammation of Achilles tendon. It is a tendon which connects calf muscles (which are present at the back of your lower leg) to your heel.

Abstract:

Many researches are present but this review article will provide you with a brief review on Achilles tendon and help you learn about Symptoms, Causes, Diagnostic Tests, Prognosis, Treatment,Treatment Modalities.


Introduction:


Achilles tendinitis is a common musculoskeletal disorder these days caused by overuse of Achilles tendon and can be treated by taking bed rest and physiotherapeutic modalities either surgically or non-surgically.

Discussion:

What are the symptoms and causes of Tendonitis, what are diagnostic tests and treatment modalities and how much time does Tendonitis take to heal?


Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis:

Symptoms might include the following:

  • Stiffness & Pain in morning
  • Pain after exercise
  • Swelling
  • Severe pain after activities
  • Tendon thickness
  • Bone spur

Causes of Achilles tendonitis:

It may be caused due to following reasons:

Repetitive activities
Sudden increase in exercise intensity
Excessive bone growth
Tight calf muscles, Aggressive activities

Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment:

•Reduction in physical activity
•Icing that area
•Elevation of foot to avoid swelling
•Shifting to mild exercises
•Using strap
•Taking Anti-inflammatory pain killers


Treatment Modalities in Physiotherapy:

Following are the physiotherapeutic modalities proven best to treat tendonitis:

  • Ultrasound
  • Laser
  • Hyperthermia
  • Iontophoresis
  • Heat therapy
  • Deep massage
  • Stretching exercises
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Flexibility exercises


Prognosis:

It may take even  6 weeks to months but it can take much more time to heal if Proper bed rest is not taken.


Tests for Achilles Tendonitis:

Following test should be done for diagnosis of Tendonitis:

  1. Simmond’s test also called as thompson test.
  2. X-ray
  3. MRI

Conclusion:


It is caused due to overuse of Achilles tendon and the best way to treat Achilles Tendonitis is taking bed rest and avoid aggressive and high intensity exercises to heal quickly.

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