Table of Contents
Introduction
Welcome to Premier Podiatry & Orthopedics, the leading podiatry office specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of various foot and ankle conditions. One common condition we frequently encounter is Achilles tendinitis. If you’re experiencing pain and discomfort in the back of your leg, you may be dealing with this condition. Our team of skilled podiatrists is here to help you understand and overcome Achilles tendinitis, providing personalized treatment options tailored to your needs.
What is Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles tendinitis refers to the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It typically occurs due to repetitive stress on the tendon, leading to microtears and subsequent inflammation. This condition commonly affects athletes and individuals who engage in activities that require sudden bursts of movement or repetitive jumping.
Symptoms
The hallmark symptom of Achilles tendinitis is pain and stiffness in the back of the leg, just above the heel. You may experience tenderness and swelling in the affected area, especially after physical activity or prolonged periods of inactivity. The pain may worsen with increased activity and may even become chronic if left untreated. It is important to seek professional help if you suspect Achilles tendinitis to prevent further damage and complications.
What Causes Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles tendinitis can be caused by several factors, including:
- Overuse or Repetitive Stress: Engaging in activities that put excessive strain on the Achilles tendon without allowing sufficient time for recovery can lead to tendinitis.
- Intense Physical Activity: Participating in sports that involve running, jumping, or sudden acceleration can increase the risk of developing Achilles tendinitis.
- Poor Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper support or do not fit correctly can contribute to the development of Achilles tendinitis.
- Tight Calf Muscles: Having tight calf muscles can increase the strain on the Achilles tendon and make it more susceptible to injury.
Prevention of Achilles Tendinitis
While Achilles tendinitis can be a debilitating condition, there are steps you can take to prevent its onset:
- Gradual Progression: Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your physical activities to allow your body time to adjust and strengthen the Achilles tendon.
- Proper Footwear: Invest in well-fitted athletic shoes that provide adequate support for your feet and ankles.
- Stretching: Regularly perform stretching exercises that target the calf muscles to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
- Cross-Training: Incorporate low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, into your exercise routine to minimize stress on the Achilles tendon.
Can You Treat Achilles Tendinitis at Home?
Mild cases of Achilles tendinitis can often be managed at home with conservative measures. However, it is essential to consult a qualified podiatrist to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. While at home, you can try the following self-care techniques:
- Rest and Ice: Resting your foot and applying ice packs can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
- Compression and Elevation: Using compression bandages and elevating your foot can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs may provide temporary pain relief and help reduce inflammation.
How We Can Help You with Achilles Tendinitis?
At Premier Podiatry & Orthopedics, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating Achilles tendinitis. Our experienced podiatrists will assess your condition, taking into account your medical history and lifestyle factors. Based on this evaluation, we will recommend a customized treatment plan that may include the following options:
- RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): We will guide you on the appropriate implementation of the RICE protocol to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and support healing.
- Physical Therapy: Our skilled physical therapists will develop a tailored exercise program to stretch and strengthen the calf muscles, promoting optimal recovery and preventing future injuries.
- Laser Therapy: This advanced therapy harnesses the power of laser technology to accelerate tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain associated with Achilles tendinitis.
- Custom Orthotics: We may prescribe custom-made orthotic devices to provide support, correct biomechanical abnormalities, and alleviate stress on the Achilles tendon.
- For Severe Cases – Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered. Our skilled podiatrists are trained in advanced surgical techniques to address severe Achilles tendinitis.
Contact Us Today!
If you’re experiencing pain and discomfort in the back of your leg, don’t let Achilles tendinitis hold you back. Contact Premier Podiatry & Orthopedics today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert podiatrists.
We are committed to providing compassionate care and effective treatments to help you overcome Achilles tendinitis and regain your active lifestyle. Don’t let pain limit your potential – take the first step towards recovery by reaching out to us today.
Looking to schedule an appointment with a physician?
Schedule an appointment with us by calling (916) 961-3434 or by clicking the button below to begin requesting your appointment today!