Achilles Tendonitis Specialist

What is Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis means you have inflammation within your Achilles tendon, which runs down your lower leg and into your ankle. In Achilles tendonitis, many tiny microtears develop in your tendon tissue to cause a persistent ache or even serious pain. If you don't get treatment, Achilles tendonitis can worsen and could cause long-term damage. 

This condition is very common among athletes and “weekend warriors” who don't take the time to warm up fully before engaging in physical activities like distance running. Achilles tendonitis can also happen with overuse. You might be susceptible to Achilles tendonitis if you have flat feet, arthritis, or unusually tight tendons.

Is Achilles tendonitis the same as tendinosis and tendon rupture?

No, they're actually three different conditions. Tendinosis is more serious than Achilles tendonitis because it involves cellular degeneration in your tendon. Generally, Achilles tendinosis takes longer to heal, but as with tendonitis, recovery rate is very high if you get professional help from Wake Forest Foot and Ankle. 

An Achilles tendon rupture is a very serious injury in which your tendon tears either partially or completely. It might make a popping noise at the moment of rupture, and generally leaves you unable to walk on that leg. Achilles tendon rupture is very treatable, but requires immediate high-level podiatric care and may require surgery.

How do you diagnose Achilles tendonitis?

Your Wake Forest Foot and Ankle podiatrist performs an ankle evaluation and discusses your symptoms and lifestyle with you first. To make sure there's no other condition causing your symptoms, you may have an X-ray as well. 

To determine whether you're dealing with tendonitis, tendinosis, or a tendon rupture, you may need additional imaging like ultrasound. After diagnosing your condition, your podiatrist formulates a treatment plan that restores tendon health and relieves your symptoms.

How do I take care of Achilles tendonitis?

Your Wake Forest Foot and Ankle podiatrist administers professional care while also recommending optimal recovery strategies for you to practice at home. Some of the most beneficial treatments for Achilles tendonitis include:

• Rest while elevating your affected leg
• Icing
• Gentle massage
• Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
• Custom orthotics to reduce stress on your Achilles tendon
• Boot or brace
• Prescribed exercises to strengthen and prevent new injury
• Laser therapy to diminish pain and inflammation
• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) to reduce pain and inflammation

In most cases, Achilles tendonitis responds well to conservative care, so you could heal in as little as a few weeks. 

For Achilles tendonitis pain relief, call Wake Forest Foot and Ankle or book online now.