The Achilles tendon is how the calf muscle attaches to the heel.

The main two functions of the Achilles Tendon are:

1. Lower the for forefoot to the ground after the heel strikes the ground when running or walking
2. Raise the heel when “toeing off” when running or walking.

Achilles Tendinitis occurs when the stress on the tendon is greater than what the tendon can bear.

When most people run, their heel strikes the ground first with the toes slightly off the ground aka heel to toe. Fast running and running uphill and downhill increases the force on the (calf muscle) and Achilles tendon. When running downhill the forefoot drops down further and with more force than when running on a level ground. When running uphill the heel is much lower than the forefoot. This requires more force by the calf to raise the heel before toeing off.

Physical imbalances that can cause Achilles tendinitis include: flat feet, feet rolling outwards, tight hamstrings and calf muscles, tight Achilles tendons and heel deformities.

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