Facts:
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Causes: overuse/repetitive stress or direct injury to the tendons.
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Associated with: running sports, track and field, jumping and pivoting sports (soccer, tennis, etc.)
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Tendinopathy: degeneration and/or inflammation of the tendon from the calf that attaches to the heel.
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Signs & Symptoms: Stiffness, pain, weakness, and occasional swelling. The tendon can be visibly thickened and enlarged in chronic cases.
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Diagnosis: made primarily by the history and clinical exam. X-rays and MRI studies are not always necessary.
