Achilles Tendinitis

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Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone.

“Unfortunately, it’s a commonly injured tendon. Many Achilles tendon injuries are caused by tendinitis, in which the tendon becomes swollen and painful. In a severe Achilles tendon injury, too much force on the tendon can cause it to tear partially or rupture completely.”

You can get Achilles tendinitis multiple ways such as overuse, wearing shoes with a heel or playing sports.  Achilles tendinitis can weaken the tendon, making it more vulnerable to a tear or rupture which is a painful injury that usually requires surgical repair.

 

 

You may experience:

  • Pain along the back of your foot and above your heel, especially when stretching your ankle or standing on your toes; with tendinitis, pain may be mild and worsen gradually. If you rupture the tendon, pain can be abrupt and severe.
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Stiffness
  • Hearing a snapping or popping noise during the injury
  • Difficulty flexing your foot or pointing your toes (in complete tears of the tendon)

There are several home treatments along with physical therapy that will help heal  your Achilles. If needed, surgical procedures may be an options.

 

If you are experiencing Achilles pain it is important to have it properly diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist. Call Dr. Hollander, 707-578-1222, today for an appointment.

 

For further reading: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/achilles-tendon-injury?page=1

 

Jessica, P.M.A.