Achilles Tendonitis

If you have ongoing pain above your heel, it could be due to a condition called Achilles tendinitis. At Podiatry Institute of the South, the board-certified podiatric surgeons offer conservative and surgical options to help affected tissues heal and reduce bothersome discomfort. Call one of the offices in Senatobia, Mississippi, West Memphis, Arkansas, or Memphis, Millington, or Bartlett, Tennessee, to set up an appointment or use the online scheduler today.

What is Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is an injury associated with overuse of your Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects your heel to the back of your lower leg. While common, untreated Achilles tendinitis can cause a rupture and the need for surgery. See the experts at Podiatry Institute of the South at the first sign of Achilles tendon pain.

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis?

The most common symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include:

• Mild ache above your heel
• Pain while running or sprinting
• Discomfort when climbing stairs
• Stiffness
• Tenderness
• Pain in the morning

The discomfort may improve slightly with mild activity. Achilles tendinitis can eventually lead to a painful tendon tear.

What can cause Achilles tendinitis?

The main causes and risk factors associated with Achilles tendinitis include:

• Intense or repetitive strain
• Running, walking, or jumping
• Older age
• Being a man
• Wearing poor-fitted shoes
• Running in cold weather
• Running on hilly terrain
• Taking certain medications
• Some medical conditions

Your risk of Achilles tendinitis may increase if you have high blood pressure or psoriasis. Prevention measures include wearing comfortable shoes while working out, warming up properly before exercise, stretching regularly, and avoiding overuse. 

If you’re a runner or jumper, it’s important to cross-train and strengthen your calf muscles to reduce the risk of an Achilles tendon injury. 

How does my podiatrist diagnose Achilles tendinitis?

Your Podiatry Institute of the South provider determines if you have Achilles tendonitis after asking questions about your symptoms, medical history, and medications. They examine your heels, feet, ankles, and lower legs and may suggest imaging procedures like X-rays, an ultrasound, or an MRI to make a final diagnosis. 

How is Achilles tendinitis treated?

Depending on your treatment preferences and how severe Achilles tendinitis is, your podiatrist may recommend:

RICE therapy

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are things you can do at home to reduce Achilles tendinitis discomfort.

Medications

Taking medicines helps reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with Achilles tendinitis. 

Physical therapy

Your Podiatry Institute of the South specialist helps you complete injury-specific stretches and strength-building exercises to maximize healing and diminish pain.

Orthotics

Wearing orthotics (shoe inserts) helps elevate the heel to cushion your foot and reduce the strain placed on your Achilles tendon. 

Surgery

If other treatments fail, or if you have a torn Achilles tendon, your podiatrist offers surgery to repair the injury and help you make a full recovery. 

To get relief from Achilles tendinitis pain, schedule an appointment at Podiatry Institute of the South by phone or online today.