DePaul University Athletics
Ask the Docs - Achilles Pain
10/14/2008 12:00:00 AM | ATHLETICS
Patient Question:
What type of shoes should a person with a semi-repaired Achilles avulsion wear for everyday use and for exercise walking and hiking?
Dr. Johnny Lin:In the United States there are over 250,000 Achilles tendon injuries per year, mostly due to overexertion and to the undue amounts of stress that we place on the tendon. Patients who experienced injuries to their Achilles tendon frequently maintain less flexible tendons than prior to their injury, and have a certain degree of stiffness throughout the ankle. This stiffness is often a reaction to improper stretching and rehabilitation after the initial injury.
A stiff and inflexible Achilles tendon equates to an increased level of stress placed on the tendon with normal walking, and even more distress when fitness walking. This stress can result in pain of the tendon, pain in the heel, and even pain into the ball of the foot. All of these factors are brought about by abnormal walking mechanics and range of motion changes stemming from the initial injury.
Treatment:
In an effort to minimize the pain in your tendon I recommend wearing shoes that have a curved stiff sole; this will provide the most relief. You can test the stiffness of a shoe by trying to bend it in the middle (midsole). If there is minimal bending, this equates to a stiff, firm shoe. Also, high top shoes can give you added support and limit the amount of movement across your painful tendon, which may also provide relief. Finally, the use of a heel lift can relieve some of the pressure placed on the Achilles tendon during long distance walking and hiking.
To continue to improve your tendons flexibility and strength, I recommend seeking the advice of an orthopaedic physician or physical therapist who can show you the proper exercises to rehabilitate your injury.
For more information about Dr. Lin and the sports medicine physicians of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, call 877 MD BONES or visit them online at www.rushortho.com.
The information contained on this page is intended for education purposes only, and is in no way intended to serve as a substitute for direct medical advice. Anyone experiencing joint or muscle discomfort is encouraged to consult with a qualified orthopaedic physician.
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