Understanding Achilles Tendinitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
The Underlying Causes of Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is a condition that affects the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heal bone.
Achilles tendinitis is caused by overuse, such as excessive running or jumping, or by an injury to the area. It can also be caused by tight calf muscles, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, or having a foot that pronates or rolls inward excessively. Achilles tendinitis affects people of all ages, but it is most common among middle-aged adults and athletes who engage in activities that involve a lot of running and jumping.
At Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, our team provides information on things like proper stretching and proper footwear to help adults and athletes maintain optimal health and physical performance.
Our expert team also offers advanced diagnostics and the latest treatment techniques for a wide range of injuries.
Identifying the Pain of Achilles Tendinitis
If you have been experiencing pain or tenderness in the back of your heel or calf, it may be a sign of Achilles tendinitis. Other symptoms include:
- Stiffness in the morning or after periods of inactivity
- Swelling or tenderness in the area of the tendon
- Pain that worsens with activity or when stretching the tendon
- Popping or crackling noises when moving the ankle
- Difficulty flexing the foot or pointing the toes
- Weakness in the affected leg
Ignoring Achilles tendonitis can lead to chronic pain, decreased range of motion, and weakness in the ankle and heel. It can also cause damage to the tendon itself, leading to a more severe injury. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect that you have Achilles tendonitis.
Properly Diagnosing Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. During the physical exam, the doctor will feel the affected area for tenderness and swelling and check for any areas of decreased flexibility.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be used to check for any structural changes to the tendon. In some cases, the doctor may also order blood tests to rule out other conditions that could be causing the symptoms.
At Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, our team offers same-day appointments for urgent foot and ankle problems.
Navigating the Pain and Healing of Achilles Tendinitis
The right treatment plan for you could include:
- Rest
- Apply Ice
- Compress
- Elevate
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Stretching
- Orthotics
- Physical therapy
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendon. Achilles tendinitis surgery is a procedure used to correct a condition in which the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed and irritated. The surgery involves making an incision in the tendon and either removing the inflamed tissue or repairing any tears in the tendon.After surgery, the patient will need to wear a cast or boot for a period of time and will need to participate in physical therapy. Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of surgery performed.