Achilles Tendonitis
An overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. It most commonly occurs in runners who have suddenly increased the intensity or duration of their runs and is also common in middle-aged people who play sports, such as tennis or basketball, only on the weekends.
Signs or Symptoms:
Pain at the tendon with a restriction of movement.
Causes:
The most common cause is from an over-contracted calf muscle. Secondary causes are from improper foot mechanics, excessive running, or improper shoe wear.
Standard Treatment:
Immobilization, stretching and anti-inflammatory medications.
Applied Kinesiology Approach:
Rebalance of muscle tissue that move and support the foot. Realignment of the joints influencing the calf muscles including the ankle, knee and hip. Nutritional considerations that help reduce inflammation and improve the function of the muscles. Education in proper gait mechanics. Evaluation for orthotics.