Achilles Tendonitis

Aching, throbbing, and soreness down the back of your lower leg and into your heel are signs of Achilles tendinitis. Because Achilles tendinitis can worsen and may even affect your sports performance or daily routine, Prime Foot and Ankle Care provides integrative treatment solutions in South Brunswick, New Jersey. Don’t suffer from Achilles tendinitis another day; call the office or book an appointment online today. 

What are the causes of Achilles tendinitis?

As the largest tendon in your body, your Achilles tendon is prone to injury because it extends so far down — from your calf muscles to your heels — and absorbs tremendous shock. When your Achilles tendon is inflamed (tendinitis), it’s generally because of repetitive stress.

For example, if you’re a distance runner, you put added strain on your Achilles tendon every time you go out for a run. The strain is even greater if you don’t properly warm up beforehand. But it’s also possible for you to suffer from Achilles tendinitis because of:

• Tight calf muscles
• Increases in workout intensity
• Suddenly changing your type of exercise 

It’s even possible to develop Achilles tendinitis because of abnormal bone growth, such as a bone spur. 

How does a podiatrist diagnose Achilles tendinitis?

When you come into Prime Foot and Ankle Care for your Achilles tendinitis evaluation, your podiatrist needs to know about all of the symptoms you’re experiencing, no matter how minor or how severe. Let your podiatrist know if you have:

• Swelling along your lower leg or around the back of your heel
• Tenderness when applying pressure to your tendon
• Decreased ankle range of motion
• Thickening of the tendon

In addition to gathering information about your symptoms, your podiatrist performs a physical exam. They check your range of motion and determine if you need specialized screenings, such as an on-site digital X-ray. In many cases, your podiatrist at Prime Foot and Ankle Care can diagnose you on the spot. 

Which Achilles tendinitis treatment do I need?

Most Achilles tendinitis treatment plans from Prime Foot and Ankle Care begin with a combination of conservative therapies. Depending on your diagnosis and the severity of your Achilles tendinitis symptoms, your podiatrist may recommend:

• Immobilization, which may include a cast or removable walking boot
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
• Regular icing sessions throughout the day
• Footwear modifications for more support
• Orthotic shoe inserts
• Specialized night splints 
• Cortisone injections 
• Physical therapy  

If you have a severe tendon injury, such as a rupture, or if conservative treatments aren’t effective, your podiatrist at Prime Foot and Ankle Care could recommend surgery. Achilles tendon surgery may be necessary to lengthen your calf muscles (gastrocnemius recession), remove and repair damaged tissues (debridement and repair), or even graft tendon tissues. 

Prime Foot and Ankle Care podiatrists can help you recover from Achilles tendinitis and learn to prevent the painful condition from recurring. Find out more by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.