Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles Tendinitis in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Your Achilles tendon is an important part of your foot. The tendon runs from your lower calf down to your heel. It’s a strong structure that supports your heel and helps to move your foot.
Causes of Achilles Tendinitis
Your Achilles tendon can become strained and inflamed, causing a condition known as Achilles tendinitis. You can develop Achilles tendinitis from several causes including overuse, wearing the wrong footwear, a sports injury, or an accident.
How Achilles Tendinitis Feels
Achilles tendinitis can cause heel pain, which can be severe. Your lower calf and heel can also feel tight and tense.
What You Can Do for Achilles Tendinitis
For mild Achilles tendinitis, you can try:
- Doing gentle calf stretches to relax the tendon and help maintain flexibility
- Applying an ice pack to your Achilles tendon to reduce swelling
- Resting and elevating your foot to relieve stress and pressure on the tendon and your heel
How Your Podiatrist Can Help With Achilles Tendinitis
Moderate to severe Achilles tendinitis should be treated by your podiatrist. Common professional treatments for Achilles tendinitis include:
- Prescription anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and swelling
- Cortisone injections into the tendon to reduce pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy and ultrasound treatment to relax the tendon and improve flexibility
- Assistive devices such as walking casts or boots to relieve pressure on the tendon and your heel
- Surgical treatment to repair or reattach the tendon
Preventing Achilles Tendinitis
There are some important steps you can take to help prevent Achilles tendinitis. Remember to:
- Substitute low impact activities like swimming, instead of high impact activities like running
- If you jog or run, try to remain on even, dry surfaces if you can
- Always wear supportive, cushioned footwear, appropriate for the activity you are doing
Contact Your Podiatrist Today