What causes Achilles tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon is the strip of connective tissue that extends from the base of the gastrocnemius muscle on the back of your lower leg down to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis occurs when this tendon becomes overworked or is injured. This type of injury often occurs in athletes who run or play basketball, tennis, soccer, or football.
Any sport or activity that causes a person to continually overextend or stretch the Achilles tendon can result in Achilles tendonitis. Injuries to the Achilles tendon can also result from overcompensating for other injuries that may put undue stress on the joints of the knees and ankles. This type of injury may also result from a slip and fall accident in which the foot is turned in an unnatural fashion.
What are the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis?
A person will know rather quickly if they sustain an injury in their Achilles tendon or if tendonitis has set in. Taking a step will be extremely painful along the lower calf muscle, especially in the morning or after periods of prolonged inactivity.
Achilles tendonitis may present itself as a dull ache in the posterior heel region that progressively gets worse the more the joint is used. If the pain persists for more than three days or continues to worsen, you should seek professional care with Dr. Jurcisin. If the tendonitis is the result of an injury, immediately evaluation and care is recommended.
How is Achilles tendonitis treated?
Achilles tendonitis often produces inflammation around the heel bone attachment that continues for months. The primary cause is a shortening of the two muscles of the calf. Applying ice and elevating the injury can help reduce the inflammation.
The primary treatment that is most effective and least invasive is laser treatment. Taking anti-inflammatories provides limited relief and only addresses the symptoms.
Wearing an athletic wrap to support the ankle and tendon while walking can reduce some of the pressure. Recurrent injuries or those that are severe enough to result in tears in the Achilles tendon may require surgery to heal.
For expert care for your Achilles tendonitis, call Precision Footcare or use the convenient online scheduling tool to book an appointment today.
