Achilles Tendinitis

Just like how Achilles’ weakness was his heel, there are issues that you may deal with that cause your Achilles tendon to feel painful and irritated. One of the most common issues that can cause heel pain is Achilles tendinitis, which is caused by the overuse of the Achilles tendon. That tendon is the band of tissues that connects the calf to your heel bone. If you’re an active person, it’s likely that you may deal with Achilles tendinitis at some point in your life.

Dealing with Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is likely to happen in runners who have suddenly increased the intensity of their runs or have started running drastically farther. It can also happen in older adults who play sports like basketball or tennis on the weekend. This is because there isn’t enough training or endurance built up, and the sudden exercise can be damaging to the Achilles tendon.

You may notice that you have a mild ache in the back of the leg or by your heel after your activity. Over time, you may start experiencing more severe pain when running, climbing stairs, or sprinting. Achilles tendinitis also brings stiffness and tenderness that appears in the morning and usually fades with activity over the day.

Treating Achilles Tendinitis

Usually, treatment can be done through simple at-home methods under the supervision of your doctor. This could be by using over-the-counter pain medications and stretching exercises to help strengthen your heel. Your doctor may also recommend using orthotic devices to help elevate your heel and reduce the amount of pressure placed on the tendon.

In severe cases, when conservative treatments don’t work, your doctor may suggest surgery. They will repair the Achilles tendon and you’ll be on your way back to a pain-free life.

Contact Your Podiatrist Today!

If you’re an active person, it’s important that you’re taking the proper steps to warm up before a workout to avoid overuse injuries like Achilles tendinitis. Contact Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi at Emerald Coast Podiatry in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL, today at (850) 862-4119 for more information about Achilles tendinitis and how it can be treated.

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