Difference between Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis

Both Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis are known to be the two most common causes of heel pain in humans. Only a registered physician can go through the symptoms of these conditions and provide Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis treatment. However, if you want to be able to diagnose your pain in the best manner possible it is necessary that you understand the difference between Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis and consider the separate symptoms and treatment options for both these kinds of pain.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis usually results from a strain on the Achilles tendon within your heel. This tendon is the band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your calf muscles. This strain is usually caused by a sudden increase in the intensity and duration of your exercise among a number of other factors. As we age, the Achilles tendon starts to weaken and may not be as naturally strong as it once was. So, if you indulge in any physical activity once you’ve aged, you’re bound to feel some pain in the tendon. The Achilles tendon plays an important role in your movement and pain within it may significantly restrict your ability to walk.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis

The symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis include:

• Pain and stiffness with the Achilles tendon
• Increased pain after strenuous activities
• Pain in the calves or the back of your legs
• Swelling around the side of your heels

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is caused by damage or inflammation to the band of tissues responsible for connecting your heel bone to your toes. These tissues grow weak over time and pain in them is commonly experienced by people aged 40 or over. The condition can also impact people who’re flat-footed, are obese, have a high foot arch, or spend extended time standing on hard surfaces.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis include the following:

• Sharp pain in the heels on your first steps in the morning.
• Pain in the bottom part of the heel if you stand for long.

Can Achilles tendonitis be confused with plantar fasciitis?

The similarities between these two symptoms make them often confused. Both tend to cause pain in the heel, and both of these conditions cause pain that increases in the knee when you apply pressure to it. While there is a significant difference in the area of the pain, some people can also suffer from Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis at the same time. Such instances can only be countered over time if you have the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. At Achieve Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre we provide a holistic physiotherapy routine that enhances your recovery process from both Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis and gives you a chance to excel in your relevant sport or activity.