Achilles Tendinitis is a common condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the largest tendon in the body that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the back of the heel, making it difficult to walk or run. If left untreated, Achilles Tendinitis can lead to chronic pain and permanent damage to the tendon. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Achilles Tendinitis recommended by your Wayne, NJ podiatrist.
Causes of Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles Tendinitis is often caused by overuse, which can occur from repetitive activities like running or jumping. Sudden increases in physical activity, such as increasing the frequency or intensity of workouts, can also lead to Achilles Tendinitis. Wearing poorly fitted footwear can also contribute to the development of this condition, as can having flat feet or a high arch.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis
The most common symptom of Achilles Tendinitis is pain in the back of the heel, which can range from mild to severe. The pain may also be accompanied by stiffness and swelling in the ankle. In some cases, there may be a clicking or popping sound when moving the ankle, and the skin around the affected area may be warm to the touch.
Diagnosis of Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles Tendinitis is usually diagnosed through a physical examination, where your podiatrist will check for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion in the ankle. They may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.
Treatment of Achilles Tendinitis
The treatment for Achilles Tendinitis recommended by your Wayne, NJ podiatrist will depend on the severity of your condition. In most cases, they will recommend conservative treatment options, such as:
Rest and avoiding aggravating activities: Your podiatrist may advise you to rest the affected area and avoid activities that cause pain, such as running or jumping.
Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain and swelling.
Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Physical therapy: Stretching, strengthening, and performing Achilles Tendonitis Exercises can help improve the flexibility and strength of the Achilles tendon, reducing the risk of future injury.
Use of orthotics: Wearing orthotic devices, such as shoe inserts, can help redistribute pressure and support the arch of the foot, reducing strain on the Achilles tendon.
Surgery: If conservative treatments do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove damaged tissue from the tendon.
Prevention of Achilles Tendinitis
To prevent Achilles Tendinitis, your Wayne, NJ podiatrist may recommend the following:
Stretching and strengthening exercises: Regularly stretching and strengthening the calf muscles can help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
Gradual increase in physical activity: If you are starting a new exercise program, it is important to gradually increase the frequency and intensity of your workouts to avoid overuse injuries.
Conclusion
Achilles Tendinitis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but it is treatable with proper care and attention from your Wayne podiatrist. If you are experiencing symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to avoid further injury or complications. With the right treatment and preventative measures, you can get back to your daily activities pain-free and avoid future injuries. Consult with your Wayne, NJ podiatrist today to learn more about Achilles Tendinitis treatment and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free lifestyle.
