Tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which causes pain in the back of the leg near the heel. Achilles tendonitis may result from an increase in physical activity or from tight calf muscles. Bone spurs can also rub against the tendon, causing inflammation and pain.
People suffering from tendonitis may experience:
Tendonitis may be treated with rest and physical therapy. In general, recovery takes weeks to months.
Similar to tendonitis, Achilles tenosynovitis occurs in the tendon sheath as opposed to the Achilles tendon itself. When left untreated, the condition may cause fibrosis and scarring that can limit range of motion in the Achilles tendon.
People suffering from tenosynovitis may experience:
Treatments for tenosynovitis include resting the affected foot and applying cold therapy. Sports massage can also help relieve pain and improve range of motion. In general, recovery may take weeks or even months.
A rupture occurs when a patient overstretches the Achilles tendon, causing it to tear partially or completely. If people feel a “popping” sensation in the back of their ankle or heel, they have likely suffered an Achilles tendon rupture and should see an orthopedic specialist immediately.
People suffering from an Achilles tendon rupture may experience:
Surgery may be required to treat an Achilles tendon rupture. Generally, the recovery period lasts 6-12 months.
Heel bursitis occurs when the bursae (fluid-filled pads) become inflamed, causing pain in the back of the heel. Pain behind the heel may suggest an inflammation in the area where the Achilles tendon meets the heel bone. This condition is known as retrocalcaneal bursitis. Common causes of bursitis are repetitive motion activities and wearing shoes that rub against or cut into the back of the heel.
People suffering from this form of bursitis may experience:
Common treatments for retrocalcaneal bursitis include physical therapy and stretching, icing the affected area and taking anti-inflammatory medications for the pain. For more severe cases, surgery may be required to drain the inflamed bursae. Recovery times vary depending on the seriousness of the injury.
Learn more about treating Achilles tendon ruptures.
