Achilles Tendinitis
The Achilles tendon connects the back of your leg to your heel. It is the largest tendon in the body. Overuse and degeneration of this tendon can lead to to tendinitis. Pain near the bottom of the calf muscle, the tendon itself or near the heal bone are all symptom associated with this disorder. The Achilles tendon might also experience inflammation and irritation. This condition is also known as an Achilles tendinopathy and most commonly occurs in men.
What Causes Achilles Tendinitis?
Running and jumping are examples of activities that can cause Achilles tendinitis. People with an excessive pronation of the foot (flatfoot) may develop Achilles tendinitis over time as a result of the additional stress placed on the tendon while walking. In most cases this condition gradually gets worse over time as a result of tiny tears in the tendon causes by overuse. This injury can also be caused by trauma. Left untreated, this disorder will worsen over time.
Achilles Tendinitis Treatment & Surgery
Like most forms of tendinitis, this condition should respond well to conservative, non-surgical treatments. Before treatment, a physical exam, range of motion test and imaging test (X-ray, MRI) are typically done to assess your condition.
Arthritis and other disorders may produce similar symptoms, so an accurate diagnosis is important. Surgery may be recommended if non-surgical treatments have been exhausted. The majority of people suffering from this condition will be able to reduce pain and inflammation without a surgical procedure.
Examples of treatments and procedures for patients suffering from Achilles tendinitis include the following:
- Acupuncture
- Activity Modification
- Amniotic Steam Cell Injections
- Anti-Inflammatory Medication
- Arthroscopic Surgery
- BMAC Therapy
- Brace or Splint
- Compression
- Cortisone Injections
- Custom Orthotics
- Ice
- Open Surgery
- Physical Therapy
- Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy
- Rest
- Strengthening Exercises
- Stretching
- Tenex Procedure
Make An Appointment At An Orthopedic Center
If you are in pain as a result of an Achilles tendon injury or other musculoskeletal disorder, it would be beneficial to see a specialist as soon as possible to diagnose and evaluate the cause and state of your disorder. Tendinitis is best treated early in it’s development. Our team of Podiatrist, Pain Management Doctors and Orthopedic Surgeons at The Center For Musculoskeletal Disorders can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and work with you to create an individualize treatment plan.