Achilles Tendonitis: What You Need to Know

How Can Achilles Tendonitis Be Treated?

Anyone can acquire an Achilles tendon injury, whether they are an athlete or simply going about their daily lives. The largest tendon in your body is the Achilles tendon. It extends from your calf muscles to the heel bones. In the rear of your ankle and above your heel, there is a springy band of tissue that you can feel. It enables you to stand up on your tiptoes and point your toes toward the ground. This tendon frequently sustains damage. It may feel like mild or moderate burning pain or stiffness in that region of your leg. Your Achilles tendon may be partially or fully torn if the discomfort is severe.

Achilles tendonitis is a type of injury in which a portion of your tendon becomes inflamed. This condition is classified into two types, each of which affects a different part of your tendon: Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis- Fibers in the middle of your tendon degrade, swell, and thicken. Insertional Achilles tendonitis-This affects the lower portion of your heel, where your tendon inserts or enters your heel bone. It can result in bone spurs.

The first step in treating Achilles tendonitis is to discontinue the activity that caused the injury. Non-weight-bearing exercises such as swimming, biking, and stretching activities such as yoga are usually safe. If a person suffering from Achilles tendonitis does not rest, the tendon may become more damaged.

Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis:

Tendonitis typically responds well to self-care. However, if your signs and symptoms are severe or persistent, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments, such as;

Rehabilitation therapy

A physical therapist may recommend the following treatment options:
Exercises. Specific stretching and strengthening exercises are frequently prescribed by therapists to promote the healing and strengthening of the Achilles tendon and its supporting structures. A type of strengthening known as “eccentric” strengthening, which involves slowly lowering a weight after raising it, has been found to be especially beneficial for chronic Achilles problems.
Orthotic braces. A shoe insert or wedge that elevates your heel slightly can relieve tendon strain and provide a cushion that reduces the amount of force exerted on your Achilles tendon.

Surgery

If more conservative treatments do not work after several months, or if the tendon has torn, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair your Achilles tendon.

Visit Feldman & Leavitt Food and Ankle Specialist now for more questions about Achilles Tendonitis.

As a general rule, surgical bunion procedures are performed on an outpatient basis in an Alberta Health Services (AHS) approve Surgical Center or in a Hospital. Surgical procedural costs are covered by AHS or the patient may opt for private surgery to avoid a waiting time.