Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon plays a pivotal role in movement, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone and enabling essential activities such as walking, running, and jumping. When this vital tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury, it leads to a condition known as Achilles tendinitis, which can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. At Silver Spring Foot and Ankle, we are committed to providing expert care for Achilles tendinitis, ensuring patients regain their strength and mobility.

Overview of Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is a common condition among active individuals and athletes, often resulting from repetitive stress or strain on the tendon. Gaining insight into its triggers, manifestations, and available treatments is essential for effective management and sustained foot wellness.

What is Achilles Tendinitis?

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, located at the back of the lower leg. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, facilitating movements like pushing off during walking or running.

Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse, injury, or strain. This inflammation can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, making everyday activities challenging.

Types of Achilles Tendinitis

  1. Insertional Achilles Tendinitis: Impacts the lower segment of the tendon where it meets the heel bone.
  2. Non-Insertional Achilles Tendinitis: Involves fibers in the middle portion of the tendon, often resulting in small tears or degeneration.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis

  • Pain along the back of the heel or lower leg.
  • Stiffness or swelling in the tendon area.
  • Tenderness when touching the Achilles tendon.
  • Increased pain during or after physical activity.

Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure effective treatment.

      Foot Pain Leg of woman which runner athletic by running shoes sitting on grass in the park holding he feet and stretch the muscles in morning sunlight .Health care concept
      Man using massage ball to alleviate Achilles tendinitis discomfort.

      Causes and Risk Factors

      Common Causes

      • Overuse from sports or physical activities.
      • Sudden increases in activity level or intensity.
      • Insufficient preparation or lack of adequate stretching before activities.

      Risk Factors

      • Age: More common in older adults.
      • Previous injuries: Conditions like flat feet or high arches.
      • Poor footwear choices: Improper biomechanics or lack of support.

      Diagnosis of Achilles Tendinitis

      Professional Evaluation: Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history.

      Diagnostic Imaging: Imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or MRIs, may be used to assess the extent of tendon damage.

      Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

      Conservative Treatments

      • Rest, Ice, and Elevation: Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
      • Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and tendon strength.
      • Orthotics and Supportive Footwear: Provides added support and alleviates strain.

      Medical Interventions

      • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
      • Corticosteroid injections for persistent inflammation (if applicable).

      Surgical Options

      • Surgery may be considered for severe or chronic cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.

      Our Expert Podiatrist

      Dr. Jason Sweeley is a leading expert in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendinitis. With years of experience and a patient-focused approach, Dr. Sweeley ensures the best possible outcomes for his patients.

      Dr. Sweeley tailors treatment approaches to each patient’s unique needs, emphasizing individualized care for optimal recovery.

      Prevention of Achilles Tendinitis

      Preventive Strategies

      • Incorporating thorough warm-up and cool-down exercises as part of your routine.
      • Gradual increases in activity intensity to avoid overuse.
      • Choosing supportive and comfortable footwear.

      Lifestyle Modifications

      • Maintaining a healthy weight.
      • Incorporating overall fitness to reduce strain on the tendon.

        When to Seek Help

        Persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty in movement warrants professional evaluation. Prompt attention can prevent worsening of the condition.

        Achilles tendinitis is a manageable condition when addressed early. Learning about its causes, warning signs, and treatment methods is crucial for effective recovery and maintaining long-term foot health.

        Don’t let Achilles tendinitis limit your mobility. Seek expert care to regain your active lifestyle.
        Schedule an appointment with Silver Spring Foot and Ankle today! Contact us to evaluate and treat your Achilles tendinitis effectively.

         

        Treat Your Heel Pain

        Nothing slows you down quite like sore, aching, painful heels. Whether you’re a runner prepping for your next race, a parent chasing kids around the house, a farmer, a factory worker, or a senior trying to stay active and independent, heel pain interferes with daily living and keeps you from what you love.

        If you are having any kind of trouble with heel pain, it’s time for a chat with your podiatrist. Don’t shrug it off and pretend it’s just “part of growing older.” It isn’t! Heel pain is not normal, and our team specializes in helping you get rid of it and go back to leading a fulfilling, active life!

        Why Do My Heels Hurt?

        The most common cause of heel pain, at least in adults, is called plantar fasciitis. A long ligament called the plantar fascia runs across the entire underside of your foot, and it’s very vulnerable to tearing and inflammation near the point where it attaches to the heel bone. This type of heel pain is usually described as a sharp, stabbing sensation, and it’s often worse during the first few steps after a long break (such as getting up from bed).

        However, plantar fasciitis is not the only condition that can cause pain and discomfort in and around the heel. Other potential diagnoses include:

        • Achilles tendinitis
        • Achilles bursitis
        • Arthritis
        • Bony deformities
        • Compressed Nerves
        • Growth plate injuries (for children and adolescents)
        • Stress fractures
        • Plantar Fasciitis

        An accurate diagnosis is a critical first step toward effective treatment. At Silver Spring Foot and Ankle, we take as much time as needed to determine the root causes of your heel pain, so that we can help you overcome it.

        Lifestyle Adjustments

        In many cases, heel pain can be remedied and prevented successfully using home-based treatment options. Determining the underlying causes and severity of your condition will help us figure out which ones will be most effective in your case. Lifestyle adjustments are part of many treatment plans and may consist of:

        • Resting from intense physical activity for a brief period, which allows your inflamed tissues the time needed to heal.
        • Using over-the-counter pain relief and/or ice packs.
        • Stretching feet and ankles.
        • Avoiding certain shoe styles (such as high heels, flip flops, and flats) while choosing comfortable, supportive footwear for your day-to-day activities.

        Other Conservative Care Options

        Heel pain that resists these home remedies should be addressed with more direct care. At Silver Spring Foot and Ankle, we offer a variety of non-surgical treatments to help you alleviate the pain of this chronic condition.

        Orthotics are among the most effective of these options, especially for feet that tend to get tired and sore by the end of the day. These devices are placed inside your shoes and help provide the added cushioning and support you’re not getting from your feet alone. Certain kinds of orthotics can even correct or control abnormal foot motion, such as excess rolling of the feet or ankles, in order to keep your joints in good alignment. One of our doctors can tell you whether a pair of off-the-rack insoles might help you, or if you’d be better served by a pair of custom orthotics fit to your exact specifications.

        Other conservative treatments may include: 

        • Physical therapy and massage
        • Splints to wear at night that keep your fascia and tendons elongated
        • Taping to support the fascia while it heals
        • Cortisone injections
        • Prolotherapy injections

        Surgical Treatment

        In the unlikely event that conservative care choices do not bring about the relief you need, surgery may be recommended. Fortunately, this is rarely necessary, although it does happen. Procedures can vary quite a bit depending on the diagnosis, location of the damage, and the severity of pain. Your surgeon will spend as much time as necessary going over the pros and cons of any recommended procedures so that you can feel comfortable with the choice.

         

        Expert Foot Care in Mechanicsburg, PA

        Our goal is to relieve pain and help all our patients to participate as fully as possible in the life activities they enjoy. Whether that involves an advanced treatment or tried and true traditional care, we will provide care to the best of our abilities.

        Call Dr. Jason Sweeley at Silver Spring Foot and Ankle by dialing (717) 237-9000 to find the help you need to regain or maintain your foot health. Get started today!