Your Achilles tendon runs along the back of your lower leg, connecting your heel bone to your calf muscle. Although it is one of the strongest tendons in your body, it is also one of the most frequently injured.

Achilles tendonitis and tendonosis occur when the tendon becomes inflamed. Considered an “overuse injury,” Achilles tendonitis affects both serious athletes and “weekend warriors.” Some activities that put strain on the tendon are running—particularly sprints, which cause you to push off forcefully, stair stepping and hill climbing. Any sudden increase in intensity or duration of repetitive activities that put stress on the tendon can result in inflammation. Symptoms of an Achilles disorder include pain anywhere along the tendon, tenderness and/or a feeling of tiredness or sluggishness in the lower leg.

Relieving and Protecting

At Dr. Jill’s Foot Pads, we have 3 ways to help relieve the pain and strain on the Achilles tendon. These products, all designed by a highly experienced podiatrist, can help reduce the strain on the tendon and lessen pain:

1. Achilles Heel Sleeve—this sleeve fits over your foot and covers it from above the ankle to the middle of your foot. Made of a soft fabric with gel pads inside to cushion the back of the heel area, the Achilles Heel Sleeve protects the affected part of the heel and leg from friction while gently compressing and reducing pressure around the sore areas. The sleeve is washable, and the pads can be re-used over and over again. It comes in 2 sizes, S/M and L/XL, and is suitable for use with all types of footwear.
2. Heel Lifts—these are often recommended by podiatrists to reduce stress on the tendon while it heals. Heel lifts help your tendon to be stretched less and therefore more relaxed. We offer 3 types of heel lifts: PPT, Cork and Adjustable Heel Lifts, which are made of resilient rubber. With the adjustable heel lifts you can peel off one or two layers to adjust the heel height for maximum comfort. Heel lifts come in various thicknesses and a number of different styles.
3. Heel Pads—these come in two sizes, J-22 and J-64. Heel pads also offer cushioning for protection and comfort to those suffering with Achilles tendon issues.

To order these or any of our other foot care products, contact us by calling: (866) FOOT-PAD (366-8723) or visit our Deerfield Beach store.