Achilles Tendonitis

[Colormebabs]

Hi, I have been physically active all my life (since 13 years old, am now 56 years old) but started running 3 miles (seven days a week) on a treadmill 2 years ago as well as powerwalking outside when the weather permits. I am 5'1" and weight 102 lbs. so weight is not an issue (or so I thought) with weight bearing exercises like running. And no wise cracks about my age please :) I know my body is wearing down.

The other day I was almost finished with my 3 mile run and I then walk another 3/4th mile to cool down, my ankle started to feel uncomfortable as though the back of my shoe was rubbing against it.

The next day when I got out of bed it really hurt in that same area. I took 2 days off because I wanted to give it a rest. Ran again after that and it was mild pain. But the rest of the day it started to feel more intense.

When I explained it to my husband, he said it sounded like it was the Achilles Tendon. So I researched it and found this site with charts that are exact as to where my pain is. Obviously I took today off and will be taking days off. I do not want to loose the conditioning in my legs so am thinking I will go back to stationary bike riding if I can (which I used to do for years). Have not tried it yet but will tomorrow.

My question is what can I do to encourage healing? And will bike riding aggavate it? Already on IBU and don't really see any swelling. And I can walk ok. Did notice it is better after I have been up and walking which I see is common. And yep have been keeping it elevated.

My guess is I am done running sigh:( But was hoping for some input from anyone who may have been through this.

Thank you in advance for any info you can share.

Babs :)