How your podiatrists in Kensington, MD can help with an Achilles tendon injury
Your Achilles tendon is important. It helps you move your foot. When you have injured your Achilles tendon, the pain can make it difficult to walk and remain active. Your podiatrist can help with an Achilles tendon injury.
The podiatrists at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland offer comprehensive foot and ankle care. They have several convenient office locations in Kensington, Clinton, Olney, and Silver Spring, MD.
Achilles tendon injuries can happen suddenly from a sports injury, an accident, or other causes. They can also be a chronic problem, growing worse over a period of time.
These are some of the most common Achilles tendon injuries:
- Achilles Tendonitis, which is inflammation of the Achilles tendon.
- Tennis leg, which results in a severe, sharp pain between your calf and Achilles tendon. The injury often happens from pushing off of one leg.
- An Achilles tendon rupture, which means you have torn part or all of your Achilles tendon. This injury occurs suddenly and usually has a popping sound accompanied by severe pain.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent an Achilles tendon injury. Consider:
- Stretching your calf muscles and Achilles tendon before activities to help the tendon deal with the stress of moving.
- Alternate high impact and low impact activities to limit stress to the tendon.
- Try to stay on dry, even surfaces to prevent injury.
- Always wear the appropriate footwear for the activity or sport you are doing.
- Increase your activity gradually, as you get into better shape. Try not to suddenly increase your activity level, because you may be at increased risk of an Achilles tendon injury with increased intensity of exercise.
Your podiatrist can help with an Achilles tendon injury. Common professional treatments include:
- Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory medications
- Cortisone injections into the Achilles tendon
- Ultrasound treatment, physical therapy, ice, and other palliative treatments
- Wearing a walking cast or boot to support or immobilize the tendon while it heals
- Surgical repair of the tendon
You can get help for an Achilles tendon injury. To find out more about Achilles tendon treatment and other foot and ankle services, call the podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle, in Kensington, MD at (301) 942-8110. For Olney, call (301) 924-5044. For Clinton and Camp Springs, call (301) 868-7670. For Silver Spring, call (301) 439-0300.