Achilles Tendinitis
Are you struggling with pain and stiffness in the back of your heel or calf? Do you perhaps experience pain when running, walking, or jumping? You may have Achilles tendinitis. This condition is one of many common sports injuries, although it can also affect people with less active lifestyles.
If you suspect you may have Achilles tendinitis, we have put together a helpful guide to the condition and how we at Richardson Podiatry Center can provide the care you need to get back on your feet. Remember – the sooner you address your heel pain, the higher your chances of a quick recovery!
What is Achilles Tendinitis?
Put simply, Achilles tendinitis describes irritation and inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This tendon, which connects the calf to the heel bone, is the largest in the body and helps us launch off the ground when running, walking, climbing, or jumping. Although the Achilles tendon is highly robust, overuse can lead to damage and pain.
It is worth noting that Achilles tendinitis differs from a ruptured Achilles tendon. This painful condition occurs when the tendon tears in half or completely detaches from the heel bone. Such cases produce severe pain and require emergency treatment.
What Causes Achilles Tendinitis?
Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis can vary between individuals. However, some of the most common signs include:
- A dull ache along the back of the heel or within the tendon.
- Stiffness in the heel, particularly in the morning.
- Tenderness in the tendon.
- Swelling around the tendon.
- Thickening of the tendon.
- Formation of noticeable nodules on the tendon.
- Limited motion in the ankle joint.
- Heel pain after exercising.
How to Treat Achilles Tendinitis?
If you suspect you have Achilles tendinitis, one of our podiatrists, Dr. Gene Reister and Dr. David Haddad, will conduct a physical exam and may send you for tests, such as an X-ray or ultrasound. Depending on the severity of the condition, they may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Physical therapy: Even simple exercises like calf stretches and heel drops can help strengthen the calf muscle and reduce stress on your tendon.
- Ice and pain relievers: Ice packs and over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen can reduce pain during recovery.
- Rest: Resting your feet will reduce stress on the tendon and speed up recovery. If you continue to irritate the Achilles tendon, more damage will be done and the longer it will take for recovery. Therefore make rest a priority in your recovery and treatment plan.
- Orthotics: Orthotics – shoe inserts that provide extra foot support – can reduce strain on your feet and make walking less painful. Go a step further with custom orthotics, which are made to fit your feet precisely and treat all types of foot and ankle pain.
- Surgery: In severe cases, our podiatrists may recommend surgery if your pain does not appear to improve after several months.
Want to Banish Your Achilles Tendinitis Pain? Book an Appointment Today!
If you are experiencing pain and stiffness in the back of your heel or calf, you may have Achilles tendinitis. Whether you lead an active lifestyle or not, this common condition can cause discomfort and hinder your mobility. At Richardson Podiatry Center, we understand the impact of Achilles tendinitis on your daily life, and our dedicated team is here to provide the care you need to get back on your feet.
Do not let Achilles tendinitis keep you from enjoying an active and pain-free life. Take the first step towards recovery by booking an appointment with Richardson Podiatry Center today. Our friendly team is ready to assist you and provide the comprehensive care you deserve.
Contact us at (972) 690-5374 or by filling out our online contact form, and let us help you banish your Achilles tendinitis pain for good.