Achilles Tendonitis

What is Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is inflammation and irritation of the Achilles tendon. This tendon connects your calf muscle to your heel and supports your ability to walk, run, climb stairs, and jump. 

Though strong and thick, you may develop Achilles tendonitis from overuse or degeneration of the tendon occurring with age. Athletes may develop pain and inflammation in their Achilles tendons when they increase the intensity or duration of their workouts. 

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis?

The mild aching sensation in the back of your leg or above your heel after your workout may be the first symptom of Achilles tendonitis. Over time, your pain may worsen and become severe.

With Achilles tendonitis, you may also experience pain and stiffness in your lower leg when you first wake up in the morning. You may also notice ankle swelling that worsens throughout the day. 

If you have ongoing ankle pain and suspect Achilles tendonitis, schedule a consultation at Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery. 

Continuing your usual activities with an inflamed and irritated Achilles tendon may worsen your condition and lead to an Achilles tendon rupture. 

What happens during an Achilles tendonitis evaluation?

Your provider at Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery conducts a comprehensive history and physical when you come in for an Achilles tendonitis evaluation.

After reviewing your symptoms, your provider examines your foot and ankle, looking for signs of Achilles tendonitis, such as swelling and tenderness. 

Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery also runs diagnostic imaging tests to confirm or rule out fractures of the heel bone, partial ruptures of the tendon, or other localized soft tissue problems that help direct your treatment.

How is Achilles tendonitis treated?

Treatment for your Achilles tendonitis at Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery may include:

• Physical therapy
• Custom orthotics 
• Shoe padding to lift the heel
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Activity modification
• Ankle immobilization

Healing of Achilles tendonitis takes time. Even with an early diagnosis and treatment plan in place, it may take up to three months for your tendon to heal. Delaying care may prolong your recovery.

Though rarely needed, Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery may recommend surgical intervention if you continue to experience pain after six months of conservative care. 

Don’t ignore your ankle pain. Call Premier Foot and Ankle Center & Elite Upper Extremity and Plastic Surgery or book an appointment online today.