Understanding Achilles Tendon Pain: Causes and Symptoms

Achilles pain can keep you off your feet, but Dr. Brandon James and Dr. Sarah James at Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels in New Braunfels, TX, offer quality, personalized care to help you find relief. 

Understanding the Achilles Tendon 

 The Achilles tendon is located along the back of your lower leg. It’s a band of tissue that connects your heel to your calf muscles and is used every time you move your feet and legs. 

The tendon is accustomed to withstanding a certain amount of pressure and work. When those amounts are exceeded, it causes what is known as an overuse injury that leads to pain, inflammation, and swelling in the lower legs and feet. 

What Causes Overuse? 

 Anything that is above the tendon’s regular work or weight load can lead to overuse. Some of the most common factors include: 

• Being overweight or obese 
• Having flat feet 
• Wearing poorly fitting shoes 
• Sudden and extensive increase to workouts, such as switching from gentle runs to training for a marathon without gradually increasing your workouts 
• Running on uneven terrain 
• Prolonged activity, such as climbing stairs or running 

Symptoms of Achilles Damage 

 For some people, the pain may be more of a mild ache along the back of the leg or just above the heel. However, this pain can be much sharper and more severe. It may also include symptoms such as: 

• Difficulty walking or running 
• Warmth and swelling in the back of the lower leg or heel 
• Tenderness when touched or moved 
• Lower leg stiffness in the morning 
• Increased pain when working out 

Treating the Achilles Tendon 

Several diagnostic tests are available to ensure your symptoms are caused by the Achilles tendon. If the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment will typically include several methods. 

Using the RICE method along with lifestyle adjustments, such as changing footwear and activities, is typically effective. Targeted exercises can also be highly beneficial. When conservative measures do not provide the desired results, our team will discuss other potential treatment options. 

Find freedom from your Achilles pain with the help of Dr. Brandon and Dr. Sarah at Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels in New Braunfels, TX. Call (830) 387-4427 to schedule an appointment today.