Q - I run slowly five times a week for about 45 minutes, and I always warm up about 10 minutes. Last Monday I felt a painful pulling sensation on the back of my calf about five inches from my heel while running I didn't think it was bad enough to see a doctor, but now the pain has made me miss three workouts this week. Could I have Achilles tendinitis? If so, when can I run again?
- D.L., Macon, GA

A - It sounds like you may have an Achilles inflammation; tightness in the area you mention is typical of this injury. But there are other possibilities. You may be describing a strained muscle-tendon juncture instead, since overuse injuries such as tendinitis come on gradually rather than suddenly, as yours did.

Because I don't know what your injury is, I really can't say how long the healing process might be or what you can do in the mean time. But I can strongly suggest that you see your doctor right away. Whether you've got tendinitis or an entirely different problem, early attention is the best way to turn it around. A prompt diagnosis and treatment plan can help get you back on track in the shortest amount of time. Waiting to seek an answer may allow your injury to become chronic and resist healing.

Source: fitlinxx.com