Achilles Tendinitis in Tennis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Prevention and Return to Play

Quick Overview
Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury affecting the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. In tennis, the tendon is repeatedly loaded during sprinting, sudden stops, lunges, jumping and pushing off for the next shot.
The condition often develops gradually rather than from one obvious injury. Early treatment is important because continuing to play through increasing Achilles pain can worsen the tendon and prolong recovery.