Achilles Tendonitis: Symptoms, Causes & Home Treatment

The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue connecting muscle to bone along the back of the heel. Edema and inflammation to the tendon is a medical condition called tendonitis. Athletes are the most often afflicted with Achilles tendonitis. The symptoms gradually evolve because of repetitive motion and respond well to home treatments.

Onset

• A gradual onset of pain begins behind the heel while walking or placing weight on affected leg. If a traumatic injury occurs to the tendon, a sudden onset of pain starts.

Pain

• The pain can be dull or sharp and occurs when walking, but is relieved while at rest.

Tenderness and Edema

• Pressing directly the area over the tendon is painful. Sometimes the area will also swell and the skin will turn red.

Location

• The pain of Achilles tendonitis runs from the back of the heel up to the calf.

Duration

• Achilles tendonitis will normally heal itself and takes approximately a month to six weeks.