What Causes Pain in the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is one of the body’s largest tendons.

Tendon tissues are strong, but inflexible. This means that the Achilles tendon cannot be overstretched.

These muscles are designed to facilitate movement, such as bending the knee or stretching of feet. They are used extensively in our daily activities like walking, running or jumping. 

If your Achilles tendon hurts when you move, then you may be suffering from an Achilles tendon infection. This is also known as Achilles tendinitis, caused by inflammation in the tendon due to its wear and tear. 

Main Causes of Pain

Tear or rupture

This most commonly affects athletes, especially runners. The rupture can be due to excessive or repetitive stress on the ankle or foot.

One of the more prominent symptoms is a burning sensation. Pain or discomfort is usually felt at the bottom of the calf muscles.  Along with pain, the patient may feel mild swelling and warmth over the Achilles tendon. In the mornings, one may feel stiffness in both the heel and calf.

This stiffness can be eased by engaging in warmups or stretches for the feet and ankles.

Individuals who jump to their feet at once in the morning to burn some calories without warming up or relaxing their muscles should take this into consideration. 

Achilles tendinitis

Achilles tendonosis is a chronic condition where the tendon becomes inflamed. This describes degeneration of the tendon, a trigger from untreated tendonitis. The fibres that make up the tendon break down or deteriorate. This not only causes pain in the tendon but also the build-up of scar tissue.

While the burning may be mitigated with proper treatment and may heal well, sometimes the patient doesn’t feel any pain or inflammation until the problem has fully developed. 

If you develop any symptoms such as severe and sudden pain at the back of the leg or trouble bearing weight on the leg, it is important to address it by seeking immediate medical attention.