$Unique_ID{BRK00920}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Achilles Tendon Pain After Jogging}
$Subject{tendonitis bursitis Achilles Musculoskeletal System Connective Tissue
tissues bursa inflamed bursitis pump bump peritenonitis peritenontitis
ultrasound heat Achilles Tendon Tendons tenosynovitis}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{
Muscles and Tendons of the Knee*0006201.scf
Achilles Tendinitis*0006203.scf
Anatomy of the Ankle*0006602.scf
Bursae of the Knee*0016401.scf
Anatomy of the Ankle and Knee*0016901.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Achilles Tendon Pain After Jogging


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QUESTION:  My usual exercise activity consists of both jogging and an
occasional short distance run, but I have had to stop my regular schedule
because of a pain in the back of my ankle, near the heel of my left foot.
Another member of my club thought it might have to do with the Achilles
tendon, and suggested hot soaks, but the pain returns after even the shortest
workout.  Do you have any suggestions as to cause and cure?

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ANSWER:  The area of the heel where the large Achilles tendon attaches to the
bone of the heel is often the site of pain in individuals who are devoted to
running.  There are three important structures all located in the same area
that must be evaluated for a correct diagnosis.  Right beneath the skin and
lying over the tendon we find a bursa (a sac like structure filled with liquid
that is usually found in the body where friction might cause trouble) that may
become inflamed.  The condition, actually a bursitis, is sometimes referred to
as a "pump bump" and is caused by some mechanical problem, such as irritation
from a poorly fitted shoe.  There is another bursa located more deeply beneath
the tendon which might also be affected, in which case your area of pain would
be noticed in front of the bulge of the Achilles tendon.  Of course the
tissues of the Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the body,
may also become inflamed, in a condition known as peritenonitis.  This is a
frequent finding in individuals who engage in prolonged running, especially on
hard surfaces, or those who must work on inclined areas, or climb many steps.
Here the tenderness is usually located in a small area directly on the tendon,
and can easily be felt.  No matter which of these diagnoses is the correct one
(and only your own physician's examination can provide that), there are a
number of things you can do.  To start you will have to change your pattern of
activity.  For now, give your ankle a rest.  Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
medications are helpful, and ultrasound or heat is a good idea.  Check your
running shoes for fit and flexibility.  You may need a new pair.  When you
begin running again, start slowly with short periods of exercise, and avoid
hard surfaces and hills.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.