Achilles tendonitis occurs when the large tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes inflamed or irritated. This nagging injury is an overuse injury that is common among runners, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts who regularly engage in high-impact activities.
While it may start as a minor discomfort, this condition can quickly escalate, causing significant pain and limiting one's ability to perform daily activities. If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can severely interfere with your ability to walk or run comfortably — thus having an impact on your commitment to stay healthy or enjoy hobbies that you love.
Read on to understand what causes Achilles tendonitis, how to recognize its symptoms, and where to get the best treatment from top-rated foot and ankle specialists in El Monte.
What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is primarily caused by overuse and repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon — a thick band of connective tissue that attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone and is responsible for helping you walk, run, and jump. Some of the most common reasons for developing Achilles tendonitis are:
- A sudden increase in exercise intensity or duration
- Wearing improper footwear
- Having tight calf muscles
- Previous injuries to the ankle joint, including ankle sprains
- Soft tissue injuries to the foot, ankle, or lower leg
- Biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches
- Higher than optimal body weight
- History of plantar fasciitis
Age also plays a role, as the tendon becomes less flexible and more prone to injury over time. Additionally, certain medical conditions like obesity, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of developing Achilles tendonitis. Trauma or injury to the Achilles tendon, such as a direct blow or sudden force, can also lead to this condition.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
The primary symptoms of Achilles tendonitis typically include pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially near the heel. This discomfort is often most noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and it may improve slightly with mild activity before worsening again with continued use.
Sufferers might also experience tenderness or swelling around the affected area, and the tendon may feel larger than normal when examined. Many people report a feeling of tightness or reduced flexibility in the ankle. A creaking or crackling sound may sometimes be heard when moving the ankle.
Pain usually intensifies during activities that put stress on the tendon, such as running, jumping, or climbing stairs. If left untreated, the pain can become severe enough to interfere with everyday walking.
Professional Treatment Options for Achilles Tendonitis Relief
There is a range of professional treatment options available for Achilles tendonitis, all of which aim to reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent future injury. Starting with the most conservative treatment, a podiatrist will likely recommend rest and activity modification to alleviate stress on the tendon. Physical therapy is also often prescribed to improve flexibility, strength, and proper biomechanics.
A wide range of non-invasive treatments are also available — many of which can improve other health conditions and your overall quality of life in addition to relieving Achilles tendonitis:
- Ultrasound therapy for accelerated cell healing and pain relief
- Massage for improving blood flow and flexibility
- Specific foot exercises to improve range of motion
- Weight loss to decrease strain on the tendon
- Strength training exercises to improve muscle strength in the ankle and leg
In some cases, custom orthotics or supportive footwear may be suggested to correct biomechanical issues. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be recommended to relieve pain.
In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend corticosteroid injections, although these are used cautiously due to potential tendon weakening. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may provide the best relief for persistent cases. Surgery is typically considered only as a last resort for chronic cases that don't respond to conservative treatments.
Where to Find the Best Podiatrist in El Monte for Achilles Tendonitis Treatment
While self-care methods for Achilles tendonitis may offer momentary comfort, seeking guidance from a skilled podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan can dramatically accelerate recovery and minimize the risk of future flare-ups.
Dr. Brittany Nguyen and her team of foot and ankle specialists are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art podiatric care tailored to every patient's unique circumstances. They offer all treatment options, from traditional methods to cutting-edge procedures that treat Achilles tendonitis and other lower limb conditions.
Ready to enjoy life without Achilles tendon pain after a visit to the top foot specialist in El Monte?
