Hurting Heels..

If you have recently changed your shoe gear, with or without introduction to new sporting activities or increase in intensity in your workouts, chances are this could be related to pain in the back of heel/foot. This area is the location for a very strong tendon called the Achilles tendon. A condition of irritation and inflammation in this area is referred to as Achilles Tendonitis. Many times, long distance runners who increase their mileage can develop this.

One of the most common reason for Achilles Tendonitis is due to the loss of flexibility. As people age, flexibility is amongst the first things to go especially for those who are not regular exercisers. With loss of flexibility, the back part of the foot becomes more rigid and less strong, therefore leading to injury upon sudden changes or repetitive trauma (for example long distance running or walking).

Middle-age recreational athletes are the most susceptible to Achilles Tendonitis.

The most common complaint by patients is pain in the back of the heel, about an inch or two from the ground. Interestingly, patients complain of having more pain in the beginning of activity and less pain during, unless the activity involves forced movements or jumping. Another common complaint is also increased pain upon waking up and the first few steps out of bed.

If you are experiencing such symptoms, your podiatrist is a specialist in diagnosing this condition and putting together a specific, personalized treatment to help you get better as soon as possible. Your podiatrist will have an umbrella of treatment options and tests needed to best diagnose your condition and fast recovery will not come soon enough unless professional help is sought.