Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition caused by overuse or injury to the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. This condition can limit your mobility and impact your quality of life if not properly managed. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is key to navigating life with Achilles tendonitis.
Causes and Symptoms
Achilles tendonitis often results from repetitive stress on the tendon, which can occur during activities like running, jumping, or even walking. Poor footwear, sudden increases in physical activity, and tight calf muscles are also contributing factors. Symptoms include:
- Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, particularly in the morning or after exercise.
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon.
- Limited range of motion in the ankle.
Treatment Options
Managing Achilles tendonitis involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and medical interventions. Here’s a closer look at your options:
- Rest and Ice: Reducing physical activity and applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles can improve flexibility and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts can provide additional support and alleviate pressure on the tendon.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Advanced Treatments: In severe cases, treatments such as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be recommended.
Prevention Tips
To prevent Achilles tendonitis from recurring:
- Warm Up Properly: Always stretch your calf muscles before engaging in physical activities.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning.
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden increases in the intensity or duration of your workouts.
- Strengthen Calf Muscles: Incorporate exercises that target the calf muscles into your routine.
At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendonitis to help you get back on your feet. Don’t let Achilles tendonitis hold you back—contact us today via email or call 480-717-5011 to schedule an appointment and explore your treatment options.
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Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition caused by overuse or injury to the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. This condition can limit your mobility and impact your quality of life if not properly managed. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is key to navigating life with Achilles tendonitis.
Causes and Symptoms
Achilles tendonitis often results from repetitive stress on the tendon, which can occur during activities like running, jumping, or even walking. Poor footwear, sudden increases in physical activity, and tight calf muscles are also contributing factors. Symptoms include:
- Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, particularly in the morning or after exercise.
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon.
- Limited range of motion in the ankle.
Treatment Options
Managing Achilles tendonitis involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and medical interventions. Here’s a closer look at your options:
- Rest and Ice: Reducing physical activity and applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles can improve flexibility and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts can provide additional support and alleviate pressure on the tendon.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Advanced Treatments: In severe cases, treatments such as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be recommended.
Prevention Tips
To prevent Achilles tendonitis from recurring:
- Warm Up Properly: Always stretch your calf muscles before engaging in physical activities.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning.
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden increases in the intensity or duration of your workouts.
- Strengthen Calf Muscles: Incorporate exercises that target the calf muscles into your routine.
At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendonitis to help you get back on your feet. Don’t let Achilles tendonitis hold you back—contact us today via email or call 480-717-5011 to schedule an appointment and explore your treatment options.