Tendinitis of the heel

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Heel tendinitis is the irritation and swelling of the Achilles tendon, which is the fibrous structure that binds and helps the movement of the muscle with the bone. Generally speaking, it is the result of an overload of the tendon during work or sport, either due to excess effort or bad positions. The loss of elasticity of the tendon secondary to age its likelihood. It manifests with intense pain in the area and inability to move the joint. The diagnosis of suspicion will be made through clinical questioning and physical examination. In many cases it is necessary to confirm the suspicion with imaging tests: x-rays and ultrasound. The main treatment is rest. As they are injuries by excess of effort, the affected person must rest the area for a few days (minimum 7) with the help of heat or cold in the affected area. Antiinflammatory drugs help reduce both pain and inflammation. Muscle stretching exercises will be necessary in the following days, for a satisfactory resolution of the problem.

Bibliographic references
  1. Karim Khan, Alex Scott. Overview of overuse (chronic) tendinopathy. UpToDate. May 11, 2015.
  2. Millar NL, Hueber AJ, Reilly JH, et al. Inflammation is present in early human tendinopathy. Am J Sports Med 2010; 38:2085.
  3. Maffulli N, Wong J, Almekinders LC. Types and epidemiology of tendinopathy. Clin Sports Med 2003; 22:675.
  4. Langford C A. Trastornos periarticulares de las extremidades. Harrison, Principios de Medicina Interna. 19ª Edición. Tomo 2, 2221 y 2248
  5. Gijón J. Balsa A. Reumatismos extraarticulres. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen I. Duodécima edición. 1070:1071.
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Symptoms

    Pain in heel


    Joints feel like two rubbers rubbing against each other during movement


    Pain in foot


    Pain in the foot increases when walking


    Pain where the tendon joins the bone

Symptoms to watch out for

Pain that does not subside with analgesics.
Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)

Self-care

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Apply local cold to the injured area 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.
Avoid sudden movements.