Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 9/20/2007

Question
Hello Dr O'Brien,

All these days I used to run on the treadmill in the gym but I like to run around my univ campus nowadays..

just about a week ago I wasnt able to run because the bone just below where the Achilles tendon (beside the ankle) ends hurts a bit(only on the right leg)..so I'm not able to run..I am sure its the bone which hurts as there is no muscle or ligament over there..

I dont think its because of faulty shoe design ,but I dont have any recurrence of me getting a knock either..

I dont know what that bone is called ...may be its talus or calcaneus.....

it hurts everytime I try to run

I apply ice every now and then but how long would it take to heal.

it hurts when i try to touch it..its been about more than 10 days and pain has subsided a bit

does it take a long time for a knock on the bone to heal?

Answer
Hello Nick,

  This type of injury is very common in runners.  The Achilles tendon inserts on the calcaneus.  When the musculature from the calf becomes tight, they pull on the Achilles causing irritation of the periosteum.  Chronic tightness and abuse can cause microfractures in the bone resulting in increased bone density and spurring.  You may want to continue to ice and stop running.  You may want to see a doctor of chiropractic for a exam to see what extent and how long the condition will take to resolve.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.