Achilles tendon pathology

What is Achilles tendon pathology?

The Achilles tendon is a strong, thick tendon that connects the two calf muscles to the heel bone.

Pain complaints can occur in various locations.

The two most common locations are:

  • Higher up in the tendon itself (midportion), between the calf muscles and the heel bone.
  • At the attachment point of the Achilles tendon to the heel bone (insertional).

Symptoms

The symptoms vary depending on the location of the problem.

Inflammation at the attachment point (insertional)

  • Pain in the middle of the heel, sensitive to pressure, and often local swelling.
  • Worse after exertion, often with initial pain and morning stiffness.
  • With prolonged inflammation, calcifications can develop in the tendon.


Inflammation of the tendon itself (midportion)

  • Pain usually 1.5 to 7 cm above the heel bone.
  • Often begins gradually but can become very intense.
  • Initially mainly after exertion, later sometimes also at rest.
  • The tendon is often thickened and tender to pressure.

Treatment

In almost all cases, non-operative treatment is attempted first. This usually consists of physiotherapy with a targeted exercise program.

One of the most important exercises in this regard is eccentric tendon training. Shockwave therapy is often also indicated.

  • Inflammation of the tendon itself

In cases of inflammation of the tendon itself, surgery is rarely or never necessary.

  • Inflammation of the attachment point

When conservative treatment does not help, surgery may be necessary. Sometimes an extra piece of bone needs to be removed. This can be done through arthroscopic surgery.
In cases of large calcifications at the attachment point, open surgery may sometimes be necessary.

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