Common Causes of Achilles Tendon Injuries

If you’ve injured your Achilles tendon, Dr. Gary Rogers and the team at Wilmette Foot and Ankle Clinic in Wilmette, IL, offer quality, personalized care to get you back on your feet comfortably. 

Understanding Common Achilles Tendon Injuries

 Your Achilles tendon is the strongest in your body. It is a thick band that connects your heels and your calf muscles, providing the flexibility you need when moving your feet and lower legs. 

Because it plays such an active role in your life, it is susceptible to various types of injuries. Below, Dr. Rogers and the team at Wilmette Foot and Ankle Clinic in Wilmette, IL, share some of the most common injuries and their root causes. 

Common Injuries of the Achilles Tendon 

 The two most common types of Achilles injuries are tendonitis and a tendon rupture. Tendonitis involves small tears in the tendon, which can lead to inflammation, pain, and other problems. A tendon rupture happens when the tendon partially or completely snaps, which is often accompanied by an audible snapping noise. 

Common Factors That Lead to Achilles Injuries 

 For some people, a sudden accident is the root cause of an injury. They might jump and land hard or unevenly, causing a tear or rupture. However, in most cases, injuries occur due to overuse in daily life. Some lifestyle factors that lead to overuse include the following: 

• Beginning a new sport or exercise program 
• A quick increase in the intensity or length of an activity, such as switching from walking to running 
• Wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support or weight distribution 
• Not wearing the proper shoes for a certain activity
• Exercising or running on an uneven or inclined surface 
• Not warming up before exercising 
• Being overweight or obese 
• Being on your feet for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces 
• Repetitive jumping 

 Some medications and even health conditions like menopause can play a role in weakening the tendon. Additionally, having flat feet or high arches can impact weight distribution, which may affect your heel and tendons. 

Treating Achilles Injuries 

 Whether your injury is due to a sudden incident, chronic habits, or foot structure, a foot and ankle specialist can help you heal. Treatment methods may involve lifestyle adjustments, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. If necessary, surgical procedures might be recommended to repair the tendon. 

Find healing and relief from your Achilles tendon injury with the help of Dr. Rogers and the team at Wilmette Foot and Ankle Clinic in Wilmette, IL. Call (847) 256-4434 to schedule an appointment today.