achillies tendonitis
... Although Achilles tendonitis is a relatively common condition among runners it can also occur in other sports such as high jumping, basketball, netball and gymnastics Common Causes: Intrinsic- Anatomical abnormalities v Flat feet or high arches v Poor conditioning or muscle imbalances- Tight, weak calf muscles or Achilles tendons Extrinsic- Training errors v Overuse of the Achilles tendon (over training) v Excessive running up hill or changing to harder running surfaces v Rapid increases in the intensity, frequency or duration of training v Wearing ill-fitting running shoes, such as the soles that are too stiff v Wearing incorrect shoes and changing between shoes (such as wearing high heels all day and then changing into low running shoes) Signs and Symptoms: v Onset of symptoms is gradual v Pain occurs with use, and there may be swelling over the tendon v As the condition worsens, there may be redness over the tendon v There may be a creaking sensation in the tendon, which can be felt with the fingers when the ankle is bent backward and forward v If the athlete ignores the condition, the following symptoms may develop: (1) pain, aching, and stiffness before, during and after exercise; (2) the tendon may become tender to the touch; and (3) the pain intensifies when walking up hill or climbing stairs Unless caught early, this condition is extremely difficult to overcome.