If you've ever been diagnosed with "tendonitis" by a doctor, there's a chance that they may have actually been misdiagnosing you. While "tendonitis" is a common diagnosis, it's often used as a catch-all phrase for any type of tendon injury, when in reality there are different types of tendon injuries, each with their own set of causes and treatments. In this blog post, we'll be taking a closer look at two of the most common types of tendon injuries: Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which is the large tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is typically caused by repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon, such as from doing too much running or jumping without proper warm-up or stretching. Treatment for Achilles tendonitis typically involves icing the affected area, taking anti-inflammatory medication, and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend wearing a boot or splint to immobilize the ankle and give the tendon time to heal.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is a degenerative condition of the Achilles tendon that is characterized by microscopic tears in the tissue. Unlike Achilles tendonitis, which is typically caused by overuse, Achilles tendinopathy can be caused by both overuse and underuse of the Achilles tendon. For example, if you suddenly increase your mileage while running without giving your body enough time to adjust, you may develop Achilles tendinopathy. Treatment for this condition typically involves physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and tendons around the ankle joint as well as icing and resting the affected area. Surgery is only rarely necessary. MDUB’s Crosstrap Achilles Strap will assist you in treating the affected area by applying isolated pressure to your achilles, offering relief and stability.
If you think you might have an Achilles injury, it's important to see a doctor so they can give you an accurate diagnosis. Once you know what kind of injury you're dealing with, you can start to treat it accordingly and get back to your active lifestyle as soon as possible!