Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that affects the Achilles tendon—the thick, fibrous cord that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. This condition typically results from overuse, injury, or repetitive stress on the tendon, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can worsen over time, increasing the risk of tendon tears or ruptures.
At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, our team of expert podiatrists provides advanced and personalized treatments for Achilles tendonitis to help you regain mobility and alleviate discomfort.
What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is often caused by:
- Overuse and Repetitive Stress: Engaging in activities that involve excessive running, jumping, or sudden increases in intensity.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing unsupportive shoes that put strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Tight Calf Muscles: Limited flexibility in the calf muscles can place extra stress on the tendon.
- Sudden Increase in Activity Level: Increasing exercise duration or intensity too quickly without proper conditioning.
- Flat Feet or High Arches: Structural foot abnormalities can lead to improper weight distribution and added tendon strain.
- Aging: As we age, the Achilles tendon becomes less flexible and more prone to injury.
Common Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
- Pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, especially in the morning.
- Swelling or thickening of the Achilles tendon.
- Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
- A burning or aching sensation along the tendon.
- Limited range of motion in the ankle.
Treatment Options for Achilles Tendonitis
Conservative Treatments
Most cases of Achilles tendonitis can be treated without surgery. Our specialists at Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC offer the following non-invasive treatments:
- Rest & Activity Modification: Reducing high-impact activities like running or jumping to prevent further irritation.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Stretching & Strengthening Exercises: A personalized physical therapy plan to improve tendon flexibility and strength.
- Orthotics & Supportive Footwear: Custom orthotics or heel lifts to reduce stress on the tendon.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and swelling.
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive treatment that stimulates healing in chronic tendonitis cases.
Advanced Treatments & Surgical Options
If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, our specialists may recommend:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A regenerative treatment that promotes tendon healing.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: For severe cases or tendon degeneration, surgical intervention may be required to remove damaged tissue and repair the tendon.
At Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment methods to ensure optimal recovery for our patients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Achilles Tendonitis
1. How do I know if I have Achilles tendonitis?
If you experience pain, stiffness, or swelling along the back of your heel, especially in the morning or after physical activity, you may have Achilles tendonitis. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis with a physical exam and imaging tests.
2. Can Achilles tendonitis heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, ice, and stretching. However, without proper treatment, it can become chronic and lead to tendon tears or ruptures. Seeking professional care is essential for long-term relief.
3. How long does it take to recover from Achilles tendonitis?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and adherence to treatment. Mild cases may heal within a few weeks, while more severe cases can take months to recover fully.
4. Can I continue exercising with Achilles tendonitis?
It’s important to modify activities that aggravate your symptoms. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling may be better alternatives while your tendon heals.
5. What happens if Achilles tendonitis goes untreated?
If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can lead to chronic pain, tendon thickening, or even rupture, which may require surgical intervention.
6. How can I prevent Achilles tendonitis from returning?
- Warm up and stretch before physical activities.
- Wear supportive shoes with proper cushioning.
- Gradually increase exercise intensity.
- Strengthen calf muscles to reduce tendon strain.
If you're experiencing symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Contact Reliant Foot & Ankle Specialists PLLC today for expert diagnosis and customized treatment plans.
Address: 800 8th Ave. Suite #336, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Phone: (817) 887-9884