What is meant by the term "Achilles tendinopathy"?

“Tendinopathy” refers to a non-inflammatory degenerative change that occurs in tendons, near their attachment to bone. It is a result of “overuse”, complicating risk factors relating to you and/or the activities you have been involved in. If you have been playing sport, involving the upper body, it is likely this is a factor too.

The outcome is that the tendon has weakened, making it more prone to further injury. This viscous cycle needs to be broken, by preventing injury, addressing the factors that are contributing to the problem and working on strengthening the affected tendon.

The Achilles tendon is the terminal part of the calf muscles, and joins the heal bone at the back of the ankle. Large forces are transmitted via the tendon as the body is propelled forward.

The Achilles tendon is prone to overuse, especially in runners, jumpers and football codes. As the tendon ages, it dries out and is prone to degenerative change and scarring. This leads to weakening of the tendon and further injury.