1047 - Incidence and Prevalence of Achilles Tendinitis with emphasis on Activity: A 10-Year Analysis from the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network

This retrospective cohort study utilized de-identified electronic health records from the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network, encompassing data from 152 healthcare organizations. Adults aged ≥18 with a diagnosis of Achilles tendinitis (ICD-10: M76.6) or Achilles tendon injury (ICD-10: S86.0) were included. Variables analyzed included age, sex, race, ethnicity, BMI, type of physical activity, and diabetes status. Incidence was defined as new cases during the study period divided by the at-risk population; prevalence as all existing cases divided by total population. Matching and stratification were performed to adjust for key confounders.

Results:

A total of 566,551 patients met inclusion criteria. Overall incidence was 28%, with a prevalence of 30%. Incidence peaked among adults aged 40–64 and was higher in women (31%) than in men (21%). Incidence was greatest among Pacific Islanders (56%) and Black/African Americans (34%). Higher BMI and comorbid diabetes were strongly associated with increased risk. Walking and running were more frequently associated with tendinitis than organized sports.

Conclusions:

Achilles tendinitis is prevalent across the general adult population and not limited to athletes. Risk is highest in middle-aged adults, women, those with obesity, and individuals with diabetes. These findings suggest a need for broader clinical awareness and preventive strategies targeting metabolic and lifestyle risk factors.