Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is a common overuse injury that causes pain and stiffness in the back of your lower leg, just above your heel. It often affects runners, athletes, or anyone who suddenly increases physical activity. If you have symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, turn to the experts at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. They provide advanced care, relieving your pain and helping you get back to your daily routine. Call for an appointment at their Park City or Chicago, Illinois, office today. You can also book an appointment online as a convenient option.

What is Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury that affects the Achilles tendon, the thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. The tendon is essential for walking, running, and jumping. 

When it becomes irritated or inflamed, usually due to repetitive stress or sudden increases in physical activity, it can lead to pain and limited mobility. Achilles tendonitis is common among runners, dancers, and athletes who place consistent stress on their legs.

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis?

The most common symptom of Achilles tendonitis is pain along the back of your leg near your heel. It often starts as a mild ache after physical activity and can gradually worsen. Other symptoms may include:

• Stiffness in your tendon, especially in the morning
• Swelling along your tendon or at your heel
• Warmth or tenderness when touching your tendon
• Pain that worsens with activity, particularly running or climbing stairs

The condition can also cause a limited range of motion in your ankle.

What causes Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is typically due to repetitive strain on your tendon. Common contributing factors include:

• A sudden increase in physical activity or intensity
• Poor footwear that lacks proper support
• Tight calf muscles or limited ankle mobility
• Inadequate warm-up before exercise
• Running on hard or uneven surfaces
• Age-related degeneration of the tendon

In addition, you can develop Achilles tendonitis if you have biomechanical issues such as flat feet or overpronation.

How is Achilles tendonitis treated?

At Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C., treatment for Achilles tendonitis usually begins with conservative, nonsurgical methods. These may include:

• Rest and activity modification: reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate the tendon
• Ice therapy: applying ice to reduce pain and swelling
• Compression and elevation: to help manage swelling
• Stretching and strengthening exercises: especially for the calf muscles
• Physical therapy: tailored programs to improve mobility and support healing
• Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, to relieve pain
• Orthotics or heel lifts: to reduce strain on the tendon
• Supportive footwear: shoes with proper cushioning and arch support

If symptoms don’t improve after several months of conservative care, your provider may recommend more advanced options like regenerative therapies or, in rare cases, surgery. 

If you have signs of Achilles tendonitis, don’t wait to book an appointment. Contact the Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. team by phone or online today.