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Definition: Inflammation
of the Achilles tendon.The Achilles is the large tendon connecting
the two major calf muscles, gastrocnemius and soleus, to the
back of the heel bone. Under too much stress, the tendon tightens
and is forced to work too hard. This causes it to become inflamed
(that is tendinitis), and, over time, can produce a  covering
of scar tissue, which is less flexible than the tendon. If
the inflamed Achilles continues to be stressed, it can tear
or rupture.
Symptoms:
Dull or sharp pain anywhere along the back of the tendon,
but usually close to the heel. limited ankle flexibility redness
or heat over the painful area a nodule (a lumpy build-up of
scar tissue) that can be felt on the tendon a cracking sound
(scar tissue rubbing against tendon) with ankle movement.
Causes:
Tight or fatigued calf muscles, which transfer the burden
of running to the Achilles. This can be due to poor stretching,
rapidly increasing distance, or over-training excessive hill
running or speed work, both of which stress the Achilles more
than other types of running.
Inflexible running shoes, which, in some cases, may force
the Achilles to twist.
Runners who overpronate (feet rotate too far inward on impact)
are most susceptible to Achilles tendinitis
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