Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles Tendinitis is usually a Sport related Injury.
Achilles tendon is the point of insertion of calf muscle to the heel. Its main function is fr plantar flexion of the feet, such as pushing off during running. The tendon can become inflamed as a result of repeated stress, or in some medical condition such as gout. Although a relatively common condition among runners, it can also occur among people engaged in other sports such as high jumping and gymnastics.

Symptoms
* Warm, tender and swollen tendon at the back of the heel.
* Plain, worsening when ankle bends upwards.
* Tightness of the Achilles tendon resulting in a "toe-touch" gait( inability to stand on tiptoe with the affected foot).

Causes
* Inflammation of the tendon as result of excessive stress or deposition of uric acid in gouty arthritis.

- What you can do
* Rest the affected ankle in an elevated position.
* Ice compress may help ease the pain.
* Avoid bearing weight on the affected foot for days to weeks depending on severity.
* Use crutches to help relieve stress on the affected joint. As symptoms resolve, normal activities may be resumed gradually.
* Add heel pads to both hoes to help reduce tension on the tendon.
* See your doctor for proper advice

Prevention tips
* Proper and adequate stretching and strengthening exercises prior to any sports. The "push wall" method particularly useful in this aspect as it really stretches the Achilles tendon.
* Gradual increase in intensity and duration and training for all sportsmen.
* Allow adequate recovery time before the next game. This is to allow the tissue sufficient time to repair as there is a lot of tendons after each exercise session.
* Avoid high protein and alcohol intake for those susceptible to gout.
* Consult a doctor persistent pain over heels after high impact exercise or activity...

Other images and information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Ankle.PNG
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achilles_tendinitis
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Achilles_tendon