Posterior Heel Pain Due To Achilles Tendinitis

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Posterior heel pain can be due to many different factors but the most common cause of heel pain at the back of the heel is Achilles tendinitis.

The Achilles tendon is a fibrous tissue located behind the foot and attaches to the heel bone to the calf muscles. It is the strongest and thickest tendon in the body and provides various roles from balancing and providing elastic energy in running, walking and hopping.

With each step, the Achilles tendon may be subjected to 3 to 12 times the body weight. Although tendons are tough, they are not very flexible which makes them vulnerable to tears, ruptures, or inflammation.

Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This occurs when the tendon becomes irritated and inflamed causing severe pain behind the foot. Achilles tendinitis is often related with running or jumping injuries and other sports-related foot injuries. Sometimes, the strain associated with these activities is so severe that it can cause soreness and stiffness which later progresses if left untreated.

The pain in Achilles tendinitis is at the back of the leg and above the heel. There can be mild swelling on the area plus tenderness that usually improves with mild activity. If you feel tendon pain, discontinue rigorous activities involving the foot. Instead, gentle stretching can be done.

When pain is felt, an ice pack can be placed over the area. NSAIDs or over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can be taken. Always take into consideration that wearing the wrong shoes can induce more injury.

It is imperative that you consult a podiatrist  if the pain becomes severe or causes disability. Other instances that necessitate a visit to the physician include sudden, severe heel pain, inability to bend the foot downward, not being able to walk on your toes, failure to walk normally, or if you cannot put weight on your foot.