Noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy: pathology and management

Many patients present to their physician's office with the chief complaint of pain at the Achilles tendon. This review discusses the pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of Achilles tendinopathy. Achilles tendinopathy is generally caused by chronic stress to the tendon, leading to a defective arrangement of collagen fibers in the Achilles tendon. This then results in pain and limited function. Ultrasound imaging can help identify the abnormal portion of the tendon. Various treatments are available for Achilles tendinopathy, the most current of which are discussed in this article. Appropriate treatment can potentially lead to a full recovery.