If you have Achilles tendinitis, you should seek medical treatment for the condition. Achilles tendinitis can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. While some individuals may attempt to manage the condition on their own, it’s more beneficial to your health to consult Dr. Joel Foster for a thorough exam and diagnosis of Achilles tendinitis and treatment. If left untreated, this condition causes chronic pain and more serious complications. 
Causes of Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which is the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It commonly occurs due to overuse or repetitive stress on the tendon, leading to microscopic tears and subsequent inflammation.
Here are some potential causes of how this condition develops:
- High-impact activities like running or frequent jumping
- Sports involving quick direction changes, such as basketball, soccer, or tennis
- Excessive training or overuse
- Wearing shoes that lack proper support or don’t fit well
- Sudden increase in physical activity
- Having tight calf muscles
Recognizing the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. One of the most prominent symptoms is pain. The condition typically causes pain and tenderness along the back of the heel, which may gradually worsen over time. The pain may be more intense during physical activity or in the morning after prolonged periods of rest.
In addition, other signs may include:
- Swelling around the affected area
- The feeling of warmth or a noticeable lump
- Stiffness in the calf muscles
- Limited range of motion in the ankle
- Weakness in the affected leg
- Difficulty standing on your toes
It’s important to note that if an Achilles tendon ruptures, you may hear a sudden pop and experience severe pain. If this happens, you’ll need immediate medical attention.
Diagnosing Achilles Tendinitis
A skilled podiatrist can diagnose Achilles tendinitis by reviewing your medical history, inquiring about the nature and intensity of the pain, and performing a physical examination of the affected area. In addition, diagnostic imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or MRI scans, may also be used to evaluate the extent of tendon damage and rule out other possible conditions.
Treatment Options For Achilles Tendinitis Offered by Dr. Joel Foster
It’s important to see a podiatrist for Achilles tendinitis. Without proper treatment, the condition can worsen over time, leading to serious complications such as:
- Chronic pain
- Tendon degeneration
- Tendon rupture
Seeking prompt medical attention from Dr. Joel Foster ensures an accurate diagnosis and the implementation of appropriate treatment strategies tailored to your specific needs. Early intervention also prevents further damage and facilitates a faster recovery so you can return to the activities you enjoy.
Some treatment options for Achilles tendinitis include:
- Rest and modification of activities: Your podiatrist may advise you to avoid further strain on the affected tendon by reducing certain activities for a while.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with Achilles tendinitis.
- Physical Therapy: This can also help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and restore a normal range of motion.
- Custom Orthotics: In certain cases, custom orthotics may be prescribed. They provide additional support, alleviate stress on the Achilles tendon, and help improve foot and ankle alignment, reducing the strain on the tendon during movement.
- Aquaroll Therapy: This method be used to provide relief from pain due to Achilles tendinitis. Aquaroll therapy not only reduces pain but also reduces swelling and improves circulation to the feet and ankles to promote tissue healing.
- Equinus Brace
- EPAT
- Therapeutic Laser