Heel Tendinitis
Achilles Tendinitis Dr. Edward Holtman, D.C.
by Dr. Edward G. Holtman, D.C.
April 6, 2009

The patient with Achilles tendinitis probably has said these words many times. Certainly this condition is an unwelcome “guest” for those who have it now, or have had it in the past.
The Achilles tendon is located on the back lower leg. The soleus and gastrocnemius muscles (calf) both give rise to the common Achilles tendon which courses downward to attach to the calcaneus (heel) bone.

It is the thickest and strongest tendon in the body. So, it takes a great deal of punishment before it ‘rebels’, tears, ruptures, or gives rise to tendinitis.

What initiates Achilles tendinitis?

Over-Stretching

Any activity that over stretches the tendon such as ballet, ladder climbing, martial arts, roofing, linoleum and rug installing, kick-boxing and climbing stairs.

Excessive or moderate over-use

Marathon walking, rock climbing, mountain climbing, gardening, running, stooping, football, dancing, baseball, hockey,

Mal-Aligned Ankle—Inversion
Mal Aligned Knee

Both cause a disturbance of the weight distribution, thus excessive stretching of the tendon occurs.


Direct injury to the tendon(s)

Something falling on the tendon, or the person falling on an object. Even dog bites can be severe enough to damage the tendon!

What about Orthotics?

If you are thinking of trying orthotics (arches) for your Achilles tendinitis, I would advise that you begin with a softer insole with an arch support built in.
“Spenco” has an excellent product available at most shoe stores.

After you have worn this arch for a time, you can “graduate” to the higher, harder, podiatrist recommended orthotic. Even so, you put them in, take them out, etc. until the feet acclimatize.

Two things to remember:

1. Tendinitis likes to go chronic. This means that you will have to perform some form of physical therapy on a regular basis for an extended period of time. (My do-it-yourself Home Therapy is PROVEN, Time-Tested, and EFFECTIVE!)

2. Tendinitis will often begin to affect other areas of the body not affected initially, and it is tenacious!

Because most tendinitis is tenacious, the victim must be resolute in treating it. Specialized exercises (non-work) and supplementation, proper use of heat and cold, and vibration are all part of the rehabilitative program.

Things to Avoid:

“Quick Fix” promises, Over-Zealous physical therapists that “encourage” you to do muscle-work exercises (unless they are opposing muscle work exercises), Curtailing all previously mentioned activities.

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Disclaimer:

Dr. Holtman's information or advice is not to be interpreted as diagnosing or treating any disease, ailment, or injury of the human body. F.D.A.

For more information on the treatment of this aggravating condition, View: http://tendonrelief.com/purchase.php
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