Achilles and Calf Pain

Tendonitis, Tendinosis, tendon calcification, partial tears, bone spurs, and bursitis are some conditions that cause pain in the Achilles tendon region and where it joins onto the heel bone.

Factors leading to Achilles pain are

• too much exercise too soon,
• calf tightness, footwear,
• biomechanical factors such as excessive pronation.

Treatment may include heel lifts, rest, ice, massage, and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation, followed by a graduated stretching and strengthening program and changes in footwear and orthoses to correct overpronation.

Acute injuries respond well if treated early, but if not, treatment and rehabilitation can take many months.

Extra Corporal Shock Wave Therapy is also an effective treatment for recalcitrant cases.