Ankle Assessment
As a self-guided first step, the goal is to identify the source of ankle pain based on common symptoms related to Achilles Tendonitis/osis. The following will direct you to more information about common causes, which will help inform your next steps in the ARC Running process: Rehabilitation and Conditioning. At any point, you are welcome to schedule a personal assessment with our PT.
A common acute injury in runners. Through excessive loading and tensile forces, the tendon may break down and trigger inflammation.
- Stiffness when waking up in the morning
- Tenderness to touch, with sensation of fluid around the tendon
- Pain immediately with walking or calf raises
- Noted redness around the area due to swelling
- Pain is worse with prolonged movement or use
A chronic degeneration of the Achilles tendon. Though similar to tendonitis, there are some key differences in how it is treated. Tendinosis can occur after tendinitis if the initial injury has not fully recovered.
- Mild pain with palpation (touch) to the area
- May feel a perceived nodule or bump in the tendon
- Feel a stiffness in the back of the ankle
- No noted swelling or redness
- Pain usually increases when starting to run, but may decrease as you continue
- The Achilles tendon connects the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles (calf) with the back of the ankle (calcaneus), helping control the ankle and foot
- During running, up to 1300 lbs of force can be imparted on the tendon with each foot strike
- The middle of the tendon is called the “watershed zone”, as there is a minimal amount of blood flow leading to higher risk of injury
Still Need Help?
You are welcome to meet virtually with our PT for additional feedback and assessment. Otherwise, continue to the next step to assess potential causes of your pain.