Achilles tendonitis, rupture

Overstretching the Achilles tendon, as with plantar fascitis, is most often the result of talipes valgus or flat foot. Mainly a problem of sportsmen and runners. Constant stretching causes the tendon to degenerate and thicken. In the end the tendon can rupture due to a sudden movement, making the person immediately incapable of walking.

• Symptoms
  Pain in the upper heel and along the tendon.
• Treatment
  Rest, which means raising the ankle, is the essence of treatment. An acute tear requires surgery and a long period in plaster.

The same cause can result in so-called heel bursitis, a painful inflammation of the bursa where the Achilles tendon is attached to the heel bone.