There is a tendon that stretches from your heel to your calf known as the Achilles tendon. It allows the foot to flex, which enables standing, running, walking, and virtually all movements. Although the Achilles tendon plays a significant role in our movements, it may also indicate our heart attack risk.
Researchers have found that those with a thicker Achilles tendon have a higher risk of heart disease and heart attack. The study found that people with thicker Achilles tendons generally had a higher chance of having a blocked artery and left main coronary artery disease, which is associated with a higher risk of heart attack and death.
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The researchers still aren’t entirely sure as to how or why the link between the Achilles tendon and cardiovascular disease exists, so additional research is needed. The study does suggest that doctors should asses patients Achilles tendon as a means of painting a more accurate picture of a person’s risk of heart disease and heart attack.
The scientific name of the Achilles tendon is a calcaneal tendon. The term Achilles tendon is derived from Greek mythology, because that was the only area of Achilles’ body that was left vulnerable when his mother dipped him in the River Styx.
In people, this tendon is quite vulnerable and can be prone to tendonitis or even rupture. People may also experience microtears and acute injury or pain through everyday activity. A complete tendon rupture requires surgery, and a person will need to be off it for quite some time.
Also read:
- Achilles tendon stretches and exercises for tendinitis relief
- Essential oils for tendonitis: 11 Best oils, recipes, and warnings
- Natural ways to improve heart rate and get your heart pumping
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
