What is AchillesTendonitis (Heel Cord Tendonitis)?
The Achilles tendon (heel cord) connects the calf muscle to the heel of the foot. When the tendon is over-stretched, over-worked, or injured it becomes inflamed and the resulting painful condition is known as Achilles tendonitis (heel cord tendonitis).
Achilles tendonitis can be caused by tight calf muscles, sudden increases in activity, mechanical abnormalities of the feet such as overpronation, and the type of shoes you wear. For example, if you wear high heel shoes, the Achilles tendon shortens, then when you switch to a flat shoe it forces the tendon to lengthen. Also, shoes with excess heel cushioning can stretch the tendon as the shock absorption enables the foot to sink lower than normal, causing the calf muscles to be overworked and the Achilles tendon strained.
How Can Arch Supports Help Achilles Tendonitis (Heel Cord Tendonitis)?
Arch supports are designed to fit in your shoe and can be specific for dress shoes, casual shoes or sports shoes. They work to correct biomechanical deficiencies or alignment problems that may be the root of your pain. Achilles tendonitis can be the result of overpronation or other biomechanical problems with the foot. Therefore, your arch supports will not only support the arch but keep your foot aligned correctly to avoid unnecessary Achilles strain.
Are There Specifics I Should Look For In Arch Supports?
The heel of your arch supports for Achilles tendonitis will often have thin heel lifts built in to relax the Achilles tendon (heel cord) and take pressure away when you are standing and moving around. This is not always necessary and many practitioners try their patients on arch supports without heel lifts before adding heel lifts. Arch supports will help your weight spread more evenly throughout your foot with each step and control the pronation or other alignment problems that could be causing the Achilles tendonitis.
Achilles Tendonitis can be painful with each step you take. Arch supports that stabilize the arch and slightly raise the heel can make a big difference.
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