Name of the Condition

• Achilles tendinitis, unspecified leg
• Alternate term: Heel cord tendinitis

Summary

Achilles tendinitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. This condition commonly results in pain and stiffness around the heel and the back of the leg.

Causes

Achilles tendinitis often results from repetitive or intense strain on the Achilles tendon. Common causes include sudden increase in exercise intensity, wearing improper or worn-out shoes, and engaging in activities such as running, dancing, or playing sports that involve quick starts and stops.

Risk Factors

• Age: More common in middle-aged adults
• Sex: More frequent in men
• Physical activity: High-impact sports ranging from running to tennis, contributing to tendon overuse
• Training errors: Such as increasing intensity or duration of exercise abruptly
• Poor footwear or high heels

Symptoms

• Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning
• Swelling or hardness in the affected area
• Limited range of motion when flexing the foot

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may include:

• Physical examination assessing pain, swelling, and tenderness
• Medical history review
• Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI to confirm inflammation or detect tears

Treatment Options

• Rest and Reduction of Physical Activity: Crucial to avoid worsening the injury
• Ice Therapy: Reduces swelling and pain
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Help manage inflammation and pain
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises to support recovery
• Orthotic Devices: For supporting and relieving stress on the tendon
• Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail to improve the condition

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With proper treatment, most cases of Achilles tendinitis improve over time, typically within months. Continued stretching and strengthening exercises are essential for recovery. Regular follow-ups may be necessary to adjust treatment as needed and ensure the condition is not worsening.

Complications

If untreated, Achilles tendinitis can lead to chronic pain and degeneration (tendinosis) of the tendon, increased risk of tendon rupture, requiring surgical intervention.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Gradually increasing intensity and duration of physical activities
• Wearing appropriate and well-fitted footwear
• Regularly stretching calf muscles and Achilles tendon
• Avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the tendon

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if experiencing severe pain, inability to move the foot, or a sudden loud popping sound in the heel area, as these may indicate a tendon rupture.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
• Patient support communities and forums

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate leg indication (right or left) if specified
• Avoid confusing with similar conditions like tendinosis or rupture
• Verify procedure codes for related treatments if applicable