When we walk, our feet must move and adapt in certain ways to lessen the risk for injury, pain and discomfort. To prepare for contacting ground, the foot arch must be higher or more supinated, making the foot a rigid lever for heel strike. As the body progresses through the gait cycle, the arch flattens slightly or pronates to adapt to uneven terrain and absorb shock from the ground. Toe-off requires the foot to re-supinate becoming a rigid lever once again. The same process happens when we run, but it happens with greater velocity and more force!
If something is awry in the lower body mechanics, there is a greater risk for foot injury. Athletes and people who are dedicated to training and their craft, are more susceptible to overuse injuries including issues with the Achilles tendon on the back of the heel. The Achilles is the largest tendon in the body and it’s important to keep it healthy and supple!
How can you keep your Achilles healthy?
When stretching is done properly, it is a beneficial step for increasing and maintaining flexibility and keeping the Achilles tendon and the calf muscles healthy. Stretching must be done diligently, slowly and with patience. Flexible and supple muscles can contribute to the healing of an Achilles tendon injury and can prevent a new one from forming.
Orthotics are medical devices custom designed for you to correct lower body mechanics and make walking and running more efficient. They effectively stabilize the ankle and foot. They can be fabricated to include features and modifications suited to your unique foot type and the way your foot and lower body move when you move.
BioPed lower limb clinicians, are trained to fit appropriate footwear and modify footwear if needed. At BioPed, we offer a wide range of orthotic-friendly footwear. Let us help you find the right fit to increase your overall comfort and continued health.
Achilles tendon pain & discomfort
If the back of your heel is sore, you may have suffered an injury to your Achilles tendon. An issue with your Achilles may cause pain, stiffness, and swelling at the back of your heel and/or ankle. Injuries of the Achilles vary slightly and can be differentiated depending on their history and onset. Repetitive stress to the tendon is typically the one thing they all have in common.
Achilles Tendinopathy is a degeneration of the collagen protein that forms the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon.
Achilles Tendon Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa located at the attachment of the Achilles tendon to the heel. The area will appear red, swollen, warm and quite painful when pressure is applied and with activity.
