Tips for Running with Achilles Tendonitis

The Xterra Magnolia Hill Trail Run isn’t until July 12th, but if you are in training you will want to stay injury free. One of the most common conditions runners suffer from is Achilles tendonitis. Running with Achilles tendonitis can range from annoying to downright painful, and there are some things you need to know to get your feet back to health.

Achilles tendonitis means that the tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone has become inflamed. It usually occurs in people who are very active (for instance, runners who race on rugged terrain), but anyone can suffer from this problem. You will most likely feel a dull ache at the back of your ankles, which may subside after the muscles are warmed up. If left untreated the symptoms will worsen and you may not be able to run on that foot at all.

Treating tendonitis is fairly simple, but it requires resting from the activity that causes pain—typically running—for a while. There are a number of different stretches you can do to make the muscles stronger and less prone to inflammation. You might try putting ice packs on your ankles and legs, especially after prolonged activity. Improper footwear can also be a contributing factor to this condition, so changing your shoes may be an option. Orthotic devices you wear in your shoes can also help. A doctor may even prescribe cortisone injections as a last resort in severe cases.

Once the tendon is healed, you’ll need to ease back into running gradually to avoid reinjuring it. For more information about running with Achilles tendonitis, call Dr. Marco Vargas and Dr. Joyce Lee at 888-784-5335 to schedule an appointment at Foot and Ankle Associates in Houston, TX. We can help diagnose and treat this problem so you can get back to running without pain.
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