All About Achilles: From Ancient Greek Mythology to Modern-Day Treatments
In Greek mythology, Achilles was a legendary warrior known for his prowess in the Trojan War.
Achilles was the son of the mortal Peleus and the sea nymph Thetis. To make him invulnerable, Thetis dipped him into the river Styx; however, she held him by one heel, which remained untouched by the waters and, hence, vulnerable.
This heel ultimately became his downfall, as it was where he was fatally wounded by an arrow during the Trojan War.
From this ancient mythological story, the term 'Achilles' heel' has transcended time and culture, coming to signify a point of weakness in an otherwise strong or invulnerable entity.
Just as Achilles' vulnerable heel led to his downfall in Greek mythology, an injury to the Achilles tendon can become a critical weakness that significantly impacts the functionality and strength of an otherwise healthy and active individual.
“The Dying Achilles” statue by Ernst Herter (Corfu, Greece).
Understanding The Achilles Tendon
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body. It connects your calf muscles to the heel bone and facilitates all lower limb movements, including walking, running, and jumping.
Causes of Achilles Pain
Achilles pain can happen to anyone - from elite athletes to those who are less active.
The causes of Achilles pain include:
Overuse and Overload: Repeated stress on the tendon, typically seen in those who suddenly increase the intensity or duration of daily activities or sports.
Inappropriate Footwear: Some shoes - particularly ones with low or negative heels - can increase the strain on the Achilles tendon.
Tight Calf Muscles: Limited flexibility and tightness in the calf muscles can stress the Achilles tendon, particularly during physical activities.
Biomechanical Issues: Abnormal foot mechanics can increase the strain on the tendon.
Age: As we age, tendons become less flexible and more prone to injury.
Treatment of Achilles Pain
While there is no instant cure for Achilles pain, understanding and addressing injuries early can significantly shorten the recovery period.
Initial treatment aims to alleviate pain and restore normal activity levels.
Depending on the severity and type of Achilles injury, various strategies may be employed, including:
Rest and Ice: For acute injuries, resting and applying ice can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the Achilles region.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Strapping: Strapping the heel can provide stability and support and reduce the load on the Achilles, easing tension and discomfort.
Heel Lifts: In some cases, incorporating heel lifts can lessen the strain on the Achilles tendon by reducing the tendon's stretch during movement, facilitating healing and decreasing pain.
Footwear: Consulting a podiatrist for an assessment of your footwear is crucial. We can recommend or modify shoes to ensure they provide adequate support and do not exacerbate strain through the Achilles.
Stretching & Strengthening: Stretching and strengthening exercises under the direction of your health care practitioner are critical to managing and preventing Achilles heel pain.
Orthotic Devices: Orthoses (if required) can address biomechanical issues in the lower limbs, thus minimising any abnormal strain through the Achilles tendon.
Shockwave Therapy: Shockwave therapy is a treatment option for those with chronic Achilles tendinopathy who have not responded to conservative treatments. Please note: this therapy is not typically used for acute Achilles injuries or complete tendon ruptures.
Surgery: In cases where a) there is a complete rupture or b) conservative treatments don't lead to improvement, surgical intervention may be required to repair the damaged tendon.
The sooner Achilles heel pain is assessed and diagnosed, the faster you can begin appropriate treatments and start your recovery journey.
So, if you are suffering from Achilles heel pain, please book an appointment with your local podiatrist today. We can help get you back to doing the things you love!