MAY 2010 NEWSLETTER Sinus Self Care Archives Achilles Tendonitis, Bursitis, Rupture; Plantaris Rupture Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. See link: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/ It may be caused by the strain of a high-speed contraction of calf muscles while running or jumping, particularly if the calf is tight. People with excess body weight are at greater risk as are those who walk and run more on their toes (the normal motion is heel to toe). Achilles tendon pain is usually felt in the back of the heel while walking or when rising up on tiptoes. Tenderness can be palpated usually mid-tendon or at times along the lower edges of the tendon above the insertion. Achilles Tendon Bursitis can also cause pain at the back of the heel. There is a bursa between the tendon and the tibia called a retrocalcaneal bursa. (See At 1, 2) Here there will be no pain upon rising up on the toes, but pressure applied to the tendon towards the tibia while non-weight bearing, with the ankle in extreme plantar flexion (toes pointing down) will cause pain. There is another bursa called the postcalcaneal bursa that is located between the skin and the tendon, which is usually aggravated by tight fitting shoe backs. Calf muscles are a very strong group of muscles that are a combination of the gastrocnemious muscle (two headed muscle on the outside, see At 3) and soleus muscle (beneath the gastrocnemious). (See At 4) The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Movementwise makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Copyright 2006