Training & Nutrition - achilles tendon is sore

I have noticed for the last few days, 4 or 5, that my left achilles tendon is sore. Not real painful, but very noticeable. On yesterdays ride of 21 miles I did not really notice any problems or soreness after I got warmed up. It does seem a little worse today after the ride. There is no swelling visible, and the soreness is just above ankle height when i rub on it.
I this common for biking? I have been doing some walking and jogging also in the last week.
I haven't planned on not riding because of it, unless it seems to cause more pain.
anyone else get this or have suggestions/ideas?

I’d like to see an answer to your question. A search of the forums might lead you to a helpful thread. I remember seeing some posts about achilles problems – if I remember right, the advice was generally “take some time off” and/or “see a doc.” However, I had a similar problem this spring and did a search - don’t remember finding a thread exactly on point.

In case it helps, I’ll share my achilles problem. I switched to clipless this spring and must have had the cleat too close to the toe on my left foot. I never felt a pop or anything, but my left achilles was sore after the first ride with clipless. I adjusted the cleat and kept riding easy for a couple months. It wasn’t really noticeable during rides, but it would really hurt for a day or two after rides. I also avoided running/jogging as I thought that might be too stressful on the achilles. After a couple months of easy miles it was much better, and I was able to train harder. It still bothers me a little after a difficult ride, but it doesn’t affect my riding now.

see l ink http://www.utahmountainbiking.com/firstaid/tendonit.htm

scroll to end, talks specifically about achilles tendonitis related to biking.

In May of this year, I ruptured my plantaris tendon. This tendon is about the diameter of a pencil, runs parallel to the Achilles, and attaches to the calf muscle. I thought that I had Achilles tendonitis and/or a calf tear, but my orthopedic guy confirmed the rupture. My symptoms were similar to a calf tear, but I also had some pain (generally to the touch) in the length of my Achilles tendon.

There is no procedure to reattach this tendon. Also this tendon is not critical, as I do not miss it now! The recovery period is about 6 weeks, but my doc told me that it’s only a matter of pain – you can do no more damage by riding your bike during recovery.

Your symptoms sound very similar to mine. You may want to see your doc. Good luck!!!!

I injured my Achilles heelS last Summer and was off the bike for 3 months. Be careful and rest your injury. My heels hurt so bad I couldn't walk without serious pain when I would wake up in the morning. Now things are ok but I have to monitor my heels all of the time. See a Doctor if the pain is bad.

By the way , if it is achilles tendon, the cure is to place your foot as far forward as possible on the pedal or move the cleat back on the shoe.

see link from sports medicine journal relates to mountain biking but the same principle applies http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/1998/03mar/kronisch.htm


excerpt...Table 2. Common Mountain Biking Overuse Injuries, Bicycle-Related Causes, and Suggested Adjustments

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Injury or Symptom Possible Cause Suggested Adjustments

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Achilles tendinitis Foot too far back on pedal Move foot forward on pedal (move cleat backward on shoe)