Achilles Pain
Posted by Health articles on December 11th, 2009
Achilles pain may be caused by flat feet or over-pronation during walking or running. Pronation is the opposite of suppination. Our feet tend to turn in different ways when we are walking or running. If they are over-pronated, they turn too far inward.
Shoes that properly stabilize your feet, custom-fitted orthotics, arch supports and insoles are some of the solutions. Heel cushions may help, too.
If you choose heel cushions, they should be made of medical grade silicone. The point is to act as an extra shock absorber, reducing the impact on the joint when your foot slams down on a hard surface during exercise or just walking around.
The cushions are among the least expensive treatment choices, available. Yet, many people find that they provide relief.
Shoes that stabilize the fit and prevent over-pronation should include a “pronation control plate“. You won’t find the plate in the least expensive brands, but many of the “designer” running shoes don’t have them, either.
Just because it’s a well known name does not necessarily mean that it is the best quality. You can visit a good shoe store or shop online for suggestions.
Custom fitted orthotics can help relive Achilles pain when it is due to pronation or a high arch. They are simple insoles that will fit in most well designed shoes. Today’s technology allows for home fitting by taking a cast of the foot and returning it to the manufacturer.
Arch supports are most beneficial for people with flat feet or fallen arches. But, everyone needs a shoe with good arch support, particularly those that are physically active. Think about all of the pressure that is constantly being applied to the arch and you’ll understand why.
Achilles pain can be a sign of inflammation of the tendon, which means that rest is warranted. You may want to change the type of exercise that you are doing, for a while.
For example, if you are a runner, you could switch to a recumbent bike, for a while. Whatever activity you try, just be sure that it does not cause increased pain. Inflammation can become chronic, if you don’t get your rest.
Severe pain in the area of the tendon is indicative of a rupture. It is important to get treatment, right away. If you have a history of Achilles pain, you have an increased risk of rupture, but ruptures are usually caused by “something”, such as jumping down from a high spot and landing straight-legged.
The Achilles tendons are easily damaged, if they are not stretched properly before running or if a person fails to “warm up”. So, don’t rush your workout. Follow the advice of your trainer or use common sense.
The risk of injury is greater when the tendons are cold. In most cases, they occur early on in a run or during a fast sprint. If you are an athlete, you should have any Achilles pain evaluated follow your doctor’s instructions. If not, take it easy for a few days and remember to stretch.
Tags: achilles pain, Pain Management, severe pain