Swollen Achilles Tendon

A swollen Achilles tendon occurs either gradually over time, or, suddenly from an acute injury.  Achilles swelling may be around the tendon itself, or at the back of the heel.

Gradual onset Achilles swelling around the tendon is usually overuse related. Common causes are Achilles tendonitis, tendonisis or tenosynovitis. They all have similar symptoms and can be difficult to differentiate between. However, treatment is often the same.

A swollen Achilles tendon of sudden onse is more likely to be a rupture or tear.

Swelling at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon inserts is usually Achilles bursitis or Insertional Achilles tendonitis. This is more common in older athletes, especially runners. Sever’s disease causes pain and swelling at the back of the heel in adolescents between the ages of 10 to 14 years.

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