# What is Achilles tendonitis?

> Achilles Tendonitis causes inflammation and degeneration of the Achilles. Contact Southernmost Foot & Ankle Specialists today to learn more.

URL: https://www.urgentfootcare.com/achilles-tendonitis

**Achilles Tendonitis** causes inflammation and degeneration of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is the large tendon located in the back of the leg that inserts into the heel. The pain caused bythis condition can develop gradually without a history of trauma. The pain can be a shooting pain, burning pain, or even an extremely piercing pain.This condition should not be left untreated due to the danger that the tendon can become weak and ruptured.

**Achilles Tendonitis** is aggravated by activities that repeatedly stress the tendon, causing inflammation. In some cases, even prolonged periods of standing can cause symptoms. It is a common problem often experienced by athletes, particularly distance runners.**It** is a difficult injury to treat in athletes due to their high level of activity and reluctance to stop or slow down their training. Individuals who suffer from **Achilles tendoniti**s often complain that their first steps out of bed in the morning are extremely painful. Another common complaint is pain after steps are taken after long periods of sitting. This pain often lessens with activity.

## Cause

There are several factors that can cause **Achilles tendonitis**. The most common cause is over-pronation. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when the arch collapses upon weight bearing, adding stress on the Achilles tendon.

Other factors that lead to **Achilles tendonitis** are improper shoe selection, inadequate stretching prior to engaging in athletics, a short Achilles tendon, direct trauma (injury) to the tendon, and heel bone deformity.

## Treatment and Prevention

Athletes, particularly runners, should incorporate a thorough stretching program to properly warm-up the muscles. They should decrease the distance of their walk or run, apply ice after the activity, and avoid any uphill climbs. Athletes should use an [**orthotic**](https://www.urgentfootcare.com/custom-orthotics) device, heel cup, or heel cradle for extra support.

A heel cup or heel cradle elevates the heel to reduce stress and pressure on the Achilles tendon. The device should be made with light-weight, shock-absorbing materials. An orthotic device can be used to control over-pronation, support the longitudinal arch, and reduce stress on the Achilles tendon.

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## Southernmost Foot & Ankle Specialists (Urgent Foot Care)
Podiatry practice in South Florida since 1982. Foot and ankle urgent care — walk-ins welcome — sports medicine, wound care, fractures, diabetic foot care and foot & ankle surgery.
Toll-free: 855-300-6685. Virtual visits: https://app.lapsula.com/book/urgentfootcare

- **Coral Gables Office**: 2828 SW 22nd Street, Suite 304, Coral Gables, FL 33145. Phone 305-856-6441, fax 305-854-3880. Hours 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (days not published). Book online: https://schedule.intelichart.com/971E774A. Doctors: Dr. Liana Korytowski-Seldin, DPM, AACFAS. Page: https://www.urgentfootcare.com/coral-gables-office
- **Homestead Office**: 381 N. Krome Ave #112, Homestead, FL 33030. Phone 305-246-4774, fax 305-248-4086. Hours 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (days not published). Book online: https://schedule.intelichart.com/400BE6A3. Doctors: Dr. Michael G. Simmons, DPM; Dr. Miimii Thae, DPM, MBS; Dr. Liana Korytowski-Seldin, DPM, AACFAS. Page: https://www.urgentfootcare.com/homestead-office
- **Key West Office**: 2780-2 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040. Phone 305-294-5553, fax 305-294-6670. Hours 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (days not published). Book online: https://schedule.intelichart.com/5836D7EC. Doctors: Dr. Bradley J. Makimaa, DPM, FACFAS. Page: https://www.urgentfootcare.com/key-west-office