Events That Can Cause Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis doesn't just affect athletes. In fact, you can develop the painful condition even if you don't run, play basketball or participate in other types of sports. No matter what the cause of your tendon pain, the podiatrists at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa/Caldwell, and Meridian, ID, offer treatments that will help get you back on your feet.

What causes Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis occur when the long thin tendon at the back of your heel becomes irritated and inflamed. The tendon connects your heel bone to the muscles in your calf and allows you to stand on your tiptoes and push off when you run, walk or jump.

The condition can be caused by:

• The Shoes You Wear: Wearing shoes that don't adequately support or cushion your feet and arches may increase your risk of Achilles tendonitis. Do you wear high heels often? Wearing the shoes regularly can shorten your tendon, making it more likely that you'll develop tendonitis.
• Your Sex: Men develop Achilles tendonitis more often than women.
• Your Age: The Achilles tendon naturally weakens as you get older. Even if you've been active all of your life and stretch before activity, you can still develop the condition.
• Your Arches: Flat foot places considerable stress on your muscles and tendons and may eventually cause Achilles tendonitis.
• Your Favorite Sports and Activities: People who play or participate in football, running, baseball, dance, softball, tennis, volleyball, gymnastics, or other activities that require quick starts and stops are at risk of Achilles tendonitis.
• Your Running Routine: Running uphill can strain your tendon and cause painful inflammation.
• Your Medical Conditions: You may be at increased risk of Achilles tendonitis if you have psoriasis or high blood pressure or your Boise, Nampa/Caldwell, or Meridian podiatrist prescribes a type of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones.
• Your Exercise Routine: Stretching before exercise can help you avoid Achilles tendonitis and is particularly important if your calf muscles tend to be tight. Other workout factors that may put you at risk include suddenly increasing the length or duration of your workout or only working out or playing sports occasionally.
• Your Weight: Carrying extra pounds strains your tendons. Losing weight is a simple way to avoid tendonitis.

Are you tired of living with Achilles tendonitis pain? Schedule an appointment with the podiatrists at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates by calling (208) 327-0627 for the Boise, ID, office, (208) 463-1660 for the Nampa/Caldwell office, or (208) 888-9876 for the Meridian office.