Achilles tendinitis

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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Achilles tendinitis is inflammation of the Achilles (uh-KIL-eez) tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone.

Achilles tendinitis is often a running injury or other sport-related injury resulting from overuse, intense exercise, jumping, or other activities that strain the tendon and calf muscles.

Most cases of Achilles tendinitis can be treated with persistent, relatively simple, at-home care under your doctor's supervision. Self-care strategies are usually necessary to prevent recurring episodes.

More serious cases of Achilles tendinitis can lead to tendon tears (ruptures) and may require surgery to repair damaged tissues.

References
  1. Achilles tendonitis. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00147. Accessed March 12, 2010.
  2. Achilles tendinitis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec21/ch324/ch324m.html. Accessed March 12, 2010.
  3. Baer G, et al. Tendon injuries of the foot and ankle. In: DeLee J, et al., eds. DeLee and Drez's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2009. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/0/view/2079/72.html. Accessed March 15, 2010.
  4. Simpson MR, et al. Tendinopathies of the foot and ankle. American Family Physician. 2009;80:1107.
  5. Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 22, 2010.
  6. Sampson S, et al. Platelet rich plasma injection grafts for musculoskeletal injuries: A review. Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine. 2008;1:165.
DS00737 April 29, 2010

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