Other common names
Who does it affect?
Anyone
Why does it occur?
The cause of this condition is unclear and
controversial. It can either occur at the insertion onto the heel bone
or more commonly about 3-5cm above the insertion.
Symptoms
Well localised pain either at the insertion of the
Tendon Achilles onto the heel bone or just above. It is made worse by
resisting ankle movements.
Investigations
Ultrasound or MRI scan will confirm the thickened
tendon with any areas of degeneration within the tendon and can exclude
a tear.
X-ray can exclude an underlying bony prominence of
the heel bone if pain is at the insertion.
Non-operative treatment
Rest, anti-inflammatory analgesics, avoidance of
aggravating activities, temporary use of heel inserts, stretching
exercises and physiotherapy, with the use of ultrasound or laser.
Operative treatment
If conservative treatment fails, surgical
intervention may be necessary. This would require tendon release, tendon
debridement +/- repair +/- excision of bony prominence from the heel
bone.
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