When Good Feet Go Bad: Achilles Tendinitis

What it is
An inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to the backs of your heels. Causes heel pain when you walk or run. Skin may be swollen and warm.

Why you get it
Overuse, arthritis, or injury. Other culprits: shoes that dig into the area just above the heel, high heels that shorten the tendon, and flats that stretch out the tendon.

Treatment
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Rest. Stretching and icing calf muscles. In ser-ious cases, a cast or surgery may be needed.

Prevention
Avoid ill-fitting shoes and the overuse of high heels and superlow shoes. Stretch the Achilles tendon regularly.