Plantar Fasciitis
Achilles tendinitis is a prevalent and often painful condition that affects the Achilles tendon—the thickest and strongest tendon in your body. This condition arises from inflammation in the tendon, which can lead to significant discomfort, restricted mobility, and, in severe cases, tendon rupture.
At Irving Foot and Ankle, we offer comprehensive services to diagnose, treat, and manage Achilles tendinitis, enabling you to regain mobility and enjoy a pain-free life.
What Is Achilles Tendinitis?
The Achilles tendon links the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus), serving as a key component in your ability to walk, run, and jump. When the tendon is overused or subjected to excessive strain, it can become inflamed, leading to Achilles tendinitis.
This condition is often seen in athletes, particularly runners, but can also occur in people with physically demanding jobs or who engage in intense physical activities without proper rest.
Typical symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include
- Pain and tenderness along the back of the ankle
- Restricted movement in the ankle.
- Thickening of the tendon
- A popping or crunching noise when you move your ankle.
- Swelling and warmth over the tendon
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking professional help early is crucial to prevent further damage and complications.
Causes of Achilles Tendinitis
Several factors can lead to the onset of Achilles tendinitis:
- Overuse and Overtraining: Repeated stress on the tendon without sufficient recovery can lead to inflammation. This is common among athletes who do not vary their training routines or who increase intensity too quickly.
- Improper Footwear: Shoes that lack proper support or are worn out can affect the alignment of your feet and increase stress on the Achilles tendon.
- Biomechanical Issues: Abnormal foot structure, gait problems, or misalignment can put extra strain on the tendon, leading to tendinitis.
- Age-Related Changes: As we age, the tendon becomes less flexible and more prone to injury.
- Other Factors: Certain medical conditions, medications, or previous injuries can also increase the risk of Achilles tendinitis.
Understanding the root cause of your Achilles tendinitis is essential in developing an effective treatment plan.
Our Approach to Achilles Tendinitis Treatment
At Irving Foot and Ankle, we take a multi-faceted approach to treat Achilles tendinitis. Our goal is to address the immediate symptoms and underlying causes, ensuring a comprehensive recovery. Here’s how we do it:
Thorough Assessment and Diagnosis: Our experienced podiatrist will conduct a detailed examination, including a review of your medical history, a physical assessment, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI if needed. This helps us determine the severity of your condition and guide our treatment plan.
Customized Treatment Plans: No two cases of Achilles tendinitis are identical, so we create personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. This may include:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Giving the tendon time to heal is crucial. We’ll advise you on the appropriate level of activity and suggest modifications to your routine to reduce strain.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist will work with you to improve flexibility, strengthen supporting muscles, and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. This can include specific exercises, stretches, and massage techniques.
- Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotics or heel lifts can help correct biomechanical issues and reduce stress on the tendon.
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation.
Advanced Treatment Options: For more severe cases or when conservative treatments are ineffective, we offer advanced therapies, including:
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive treatment uses shockwaves to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation in the tendon.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: PRP therapy uses your blood’s growth factors to promote healing and tissue regeneration.
- Surgical Intervention: In rare cases where tendinitis leads to significant damage or rupture, minimally invasive surgical techniques can repair or remove damaged tissue.
- Patient Education and Prevention: We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. Our team will educate you on proper footwear, exercise techniques, and lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence. We’ll also guide you on a gradual return to physical activity to avoid re-injury.
Why Choose Irving Foot and Ankle?
Our team has extensive experience in treating Achilles tendinitis and other foot-related conditions. We stay up-to-date with the latest research and treatment options to ensure the best care for our patients.
If you suspect you have Achilles tendinitis or are experiencing related symptoms, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Contact Irving Foot and Ankle today to schedule an appointment. We’re here to provide expert care and help you get back on your feet, ready to embrace an active, pain-free lifestyle.