The Achilles tendon is a
thick tendon located in the back of the leg
. It connects the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles in the calf to an insertion point at the calcaneus (heel bone
What part of the human body is named after Achilles?
The tendon
is named after the ancient Greek mythological figure Achilles because it lies at the only part of his body that was still vulnerable after his mother had dipped him (holding him by the heel) into the River Styx.
Is the Achilles heel a body part?
| Achilles tendon | Location Back of the lower leg | Identifiers | Latin tendo calcaneus, tendo Achillis | MeSH D000125 |
|---|
What muscle is the Achilles tendon?
The Achilles tendon is also called the
calcaneal tendon
. The gastrocnemius and soleus muscles (calf muscles) unite into one band of tissue, which becomes the Achilles tendon at the low end of the calf. The Achilles tendon then inserts into the calcaneus.
How do you relieve Achilles pain?
- Rest.
- Ice.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Specific exercises to strengthen your calf muscles.
- Physical therapy.
- Eccentric strength training. …
- Low-impact activities, such as swimming.
Can Achilles tendon heal on its own?
Minor to moderate Achilles tendon injuries should heal on their own
. To speed the process, you can: Rest your leg. Avoid putting weight on it as best you can.
Why does my Achilles hurt for no reason?
Most likely, your Achilles pain is
caused by overuse of the tendon
. It’s common that people who are athletic and active get Achilles pain the most. It’s not something that you should let go and keep doing activities on. This can make it worse and cause further issues and pain in your tendon.
What happens if Achilles is cut?
If your Achilles tendon is ruptured
you will be unable to stand on tiptoe and will have a flat-footed walk
. It is important to diagnose and treat this injury as soon as possible, to help promote healing. Treatment involves wearing a plaster cast or brace (orthosis) for several weeks, and possibly having an operation.
Where is the largest tendon in the body?
The Achilles tendon
is the largest tendon in the body. It connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and is used when you walk, run, and jump.
Will ankle brace help Achilles tendonitis?
Can an ankle brace help with Achilles tendonitis? The correct ankle brace will definitely
help with the pain and swelling associated with
Achilles tendonitis and also allow you to regain mobility while your tendon heals.
What does an inflamed Achilles tendon feel like?
The Achilles tendon feels
sore a few centimeters above where it meets the heel bone
. The lower leg feels stiff, slow, or weak. A slight pain appears in the back of the leg after running or exercising and becomes more severe. Pain in the Achilles tendon occurs while running or a couple of hours after.
How do I know if my Achilles is torn?
Pain, possibly severe, and swelling near the heel
.
An inability to bend the foot downward
or “push off” the injured leg when walking. An inability to stand on the toes on the injured leg. A popping or snapping sound when the injury occurs.
How long does it take for a strained Achilles tendon to heal?
This may be as soon as 2 to 3 weeks or as long 6 weeks after your injury. With the help of physical therapy, most people can return to normal activity in
4 to 6 months
. In physical therapy, you will learn exercises to make your calf muscles stronger and your Achilles tendon more flexible.
Is it OK to walk with Achilles tendonitis?
Rest: Don’t put pressure or weight on your tendon for
one to two days
until you can walk on the tendon without pain. The tendon usually heals faster if no additional strain is placed on it during this time. Your doctor may suggest that you use crutches if you need to go long distances while resting your tendon.
How do I get rid of the pain in my heel?
- Rest as much as possible.
- Apply ice to the heel for 10 to 15 minutes twice a day.
- Take over-the-counter pain medications.
- Wear shoes that fit properly.
- Wear a night splint, a special device that stretches the foot while you sleep.
- Use heel lifts or shoe inserts to reduce pain.
What kind of doctor do I see for Achilles tendon?
You’ll likely first bring your symptoms to the attention of your family doctor. He or she might refer you to a doctor specializing in sports medicine or physical and rehabilitative medicine (physiatrist). If your Achilles tendon has ruptured, you may need to see an
orthopedic surgeon
.
