The Achilles Tendon is the body's largest tendonAchilles tendinitis occurs when the tendon is swollen and tenderInflammation occurs due to the calf muscles overstretchingPassive stretching is due to frequent walking and jumpingYoung male adults are affected more than femaleOverexertion leads to many tendinitis in malesThere may severe pain and difficulty in runningIf untreated the stretched tendon may result in tearingIt is important the tendon is rested and icedThe blood supply to the tendon must not be compromisedX-rays and MRI will the confirm the severitySevere rupture of the tendon may require surgeryTreatment is by reduction of strenuous activitiesFollowed by strengthening exercise and physiotherapyA brace or cast will keep the heel and tendon stillTo allow the very important Achilles tendon heal-An original poem by Kenneth KeeInteresting Tips about the Achilles TendinitisA Healthy Lifestyle1. Take a well Balanced Diet2. Rest of the tendonHot compress may help reduce inflammationSplints or bandaging of the tendon and heel area and ankle to rest the tendonsPain killers such as NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for painMuscle relaxant to relax musclesLocal injection of local anesthetic and long acting steroid should be avoided because of danger of rupture of tendon.Avoid over usage of the Achilles tendonStrengthen the muscles and tendons with exercisesSurgical reattachment of Achilles tendon may be necessary if torn.3. Keep bones and body strongBone marrow produces our bloodEat foods rich in calcium like yogurt, cheese, milk, and dark green vegetables.Eat foods rich in Vitamin D, like eggs, fatty fish, cereal, and fortified milk.Eat food rich in Vitamins B and C such as green vegetables and fruitsZinc and other minerals are important to the body4. Get enough rest and SleepAvoid stress and tension5. Exercise and stay active.It is best to do weight-bearing exercise such as walking, jogging, stair climbing, dancing, or lifting weights for 21/2 hours a week.One way to do this is to be active 30 minutes a day at least 5 days a week.Begin slowly especially if a person has not been active.6. Do not drink more than 2 alcohol drinks a day for a man or 1 alcohol drink a day for a woman.Alcohol use also increases the chance of falling and breaking a bone.Alcohol can affect the neurons and brain cells.7. Stop or do not begin smoking.It also interferes with blood supply and healing.Cigarettes contain more than forty types of hazardous and possibly cancer causing chemicals which can harm the smokers and those around themChapter 1Achilles TendinitisWhat is Achilles Tendinitis?Achilles Tendinitis is the inflammation and swelling of the Achilles tendon.What are the causes of Achilles Tendinitis?Causes:The cause of Achilles Tendinitis is due:1. Injury or trauma to the Achilles tendon-minor tears in the tendon of these muscles is always present in injury2. Repetitive over usage of Achilles tendon especially in a runnerWhat are the symptoms and signs of Achilles Tendinitis?Onset is usually gradual unless due to injurySymptoms:1. Pain on movement of the Achilles tendon2. Swelling of the Achilles tendon affected at the lower leg and heel3. Stiffness of the Achilles tendon - inability to stretch4. Pain often radiates into the footSigns:1. Swelling of the affected Achilles tendon2. Pain and local tenderness of the affected Achilles tendon3. Dry crepitus on movement of the Achilles tendon is present4. X-rays are usually normal although an ultrasound may show minor tears in the tendon.TABLE OF CONTENTIntroductionChapter 1 Achilles TendinitisChapter 2 Interesting Facts of Achilles TendinitisChapter 3 Treatment of Achilles TendinitisChapter 4 Flat FootChapter 5 Plantar FascilitisChapter 6 Ankle SprainChapter 7 TenosynovitisChapter 8 Elbow DislocationChapter 9 Knee Cap Dislocation. --Provided by publisher.