Achilles Tendinopathy Flashcards
What are the two types of achilles tendinopathy
Insertion tendinopathy - within 2cm of the insertion point on the calcaneus
Mid-portion tendinopathy - 2-6cm above the insertion point
What are the risk factors
Sports that stress the Achilles - basketball, tennis, track athletics
Inflammatory conditions e.g. RA, ank spond
Diabetes
Raised cholesterol
Fluoroquinolone abx e.g. ciprofloxacin
How does it present
Pain or aching in achilles tendon w activity
Stiffness
Tenderness
Swelling
Nodularity on palpation of the tendon
How do you exclude Achilles tendon rupture
Simmond’s calf squeeze test
USS
What does management involve
Rest
Ice
Analgesia
Physio
Orthotics
Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy
Surgery to remove nodules and adhesions or alter the tendon
Why are steroid injections avoided
Risk of tendon rupture
What does Achilles tendinopathy involve
Damage, swelling, inflammation and reduced function in the Achilles tendon
