User:Econterms/Achilles paratendinitis

Achilles paratendinitis is a medical condition of inflammation around the Achilles tendon, more than an inch above the place where the tendon inserts into the heel. The name is sometimes spelled paratendonitis. It is a subset of a category called Achilles tendinitis or Achilles tendinopathy which includes inflammation associated with injury at the insertion point.

Paratendinitis occurs in the "watershed area." It is normally caused by an injury that cuts the sheath around the tendon, allowing the fluid inside to leak out and create swelling around the tendon. This causes sensitivity and pain nearby.

The injuries that cause such tears are often from sports such as running, tennis, or basketball which cause stretching and twisting to the ankle area.

Recovery is slow because there is not much blood flow to the tendon area. Treatment often includes anti-inflammatory topical medications, ice to reduce swelling, and long term rest for weeks or months. These treatments do not repair the injury but slightly help blood get to the injured area to repair the tear in the sheath. A review of several studies found that treatments by injections and nitroglycerin patches did not provide great benefits.