Your Achilles tendon serves many purposes in helping you move around, but it's only when it becomes injured that we most notice its absence. The tendon connects your calf to your heel bone and its overuse while running or jumping creates Achilles tendonitis. This can cause pain, inflammation, and can affect your range of movement. At-home treatments can very successful at aiding recovery, but don't think twice about reaching out to your Sparta, NJ, podiatrist at any stage of care, especially if you suspect your condition has not improved. Learn more about Achilles tendonitis by contacting Family Foot & Ankle Care with Dr. Philip Caswell.
Recovery
The most common symptoms of discomfort and inflammation tend to be interlinked to one another, so to reduce pain the conservative approach calls for a reduction in inflammation. This can be achieved with elevation and by applying ice throughout the day, careful not to apply the ice directly onto the skin. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can further help, but they should not be counted on for long-term relief, nor as a way to force yourself back to normal activities. The most important aspect of at-home care is rest, as getting back to a normal routine too quickly can further complicate your condition.
Getting Help From Your Doctor
Whether at-home care has not shown improvements, you are in a lot of pain, or simply wish for professional help right at the start, you can turn to your podiatrist. They can diagnose the extent of the problem with imaging tests and can suggest noninvasive answers such as physical therapy, medication, and heel immobilization with a cast or walking boot to ensure recovery. Severe forms of tendonitis may require surgical intervention to provide you with long-term relief.
Heel Pain Treatment in Sparta, NJ
Your doctor can also play a role in helping you prevent tendonitis with proper footwear or orthotic devices for your level of activity. The type of sport or exercise you practice, as well as your age, can be risk factors that you and your doctor also need to consider. Proper warm-up before physical activity and not pushing yourself too hard during the activity can also lessen your chances of incurring an injury.
Don't ignore heel pain, schedule a consultation today with your Sparta, NJ, podiatrist of Family Foot & Ankle Care, Dr. Caswell, by dialing (973) 300-9151.