Pain behind the heel
Achilles tendon (tendonitis)
The Achilles tendon is the most resistant part of our body and is also the most common foot injury. This tendon attaches the heel to the calf muscle and stores energy when the foot is placed on the ground and releases it when the foot is propelled. This condition particularly affects individuals practicing sports such as uphill or downhill racing, or those who practice sports that include frequent and sudden jumps or changes in direction. Adults and the elderly are at risk to suffer this kind of injury. As the body ages, the constant use of these tendons over the years creates micro tears thus causing a loss in elasticity.
Tendonitis of the Achilles tendon will be experienced when getting up in the morning and at the start of a sporting session. This pain is sometimes accompanied by signs of inflammation such as swelling and redness; accompanied by a sensation of heat. Damage to the Achilles tendon may worsen until the tendon is torn. In such a case the pain becomes unbearable and the cure is much longer.
Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of a “bursa”. The bursa (fluid-filled sac) acts as a barrier or cushion between the bones and tendons near the joints to allow better sliding and to limit friction.
In the foot, the bursitis is located behind the heel, where the Achilles tendon is found. The development of a bursitis on the foot can be the result of repetitive friction in a shoe that is too narrow or poorly adjusted. As with a bunion, it causes a red bump on the inner side of the big toe. In some cases, it may be caused by an inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis.
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