Swelling in the Achilles tendon is a condition known as Achilles tendinitis (sometimes spelled tendonitis). Tendinitis causes inflammation and irritation around the affected tendon, but the condition is fortunately highly treatable.

Causes

Achilles tendinitis has a number of causes including: increasing how far or fast you run too quickly, beginning to run at an incline, starting a movement suddenly, extreme calf-muscle contraction and weakness in the calf muscles, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

Symptoms

Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include, according to the Mayo Clinic: dull aching or pain when starting a movement like walking or getting up on the toes, tenderness, stiffness and a bump in the tendon as well as cracking when the tendon is used.

Diagnosis

Achilles tendinitis can be diagnosed with a physical exam and imaging technologies like x-ray and MRI, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Treatment

Treatments for Achilles tendinitis may include, according to the AAOS: rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (for pain relief), orthoses to take strain off the tendon, bandaging and exercises to increase strength. The AAOS reports that in some extreme cases, surgery may be required to repair damage to the tendon.

Warning

Although generally not itself a severe condition, Achilles tendinitis can lead to complications like tendinosis, which weakens the structure of the tendon, and rupture of the tendon, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Source:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Achilles Tendonitis

Mayo Clinic: Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

Mayo Clinic: Achilles Tendinitis Tests and Diagnosis

More Information:

Mayo Clinic: Achilles Tendinitis Complications