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Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon is the connection between the heel and the muscles of the lower leg.

Achilles tendinitis is when the tendon that connects the back of your leg to your heel becomes swollen and painful near the bottom of the foot. This tendon is called the Achilles tendon. It is used for walking, running, and jumping.

Several factors contribute to the development of Achilles tendinitis, including excessive hill running, sudden increases in training, and improper shoes.

One of the major factors is excessive tightness of the posterior muscles of the leg, including the calf muscles and the hamstrings.

Runners with this condition should reduce their running.

Runners can use ice and gentle stretching to reduce pain and tightness.

If not treated properly, Achilles tendinitis can develop into a chronic problem.

Lifestyle changes usually help improve symptoms. However, symptoms may return if you do not limit activities that cause pain, or if you do not maintain the strength and flexibility of the tendon.