Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury common in people who play recreational sports. If you have pain in the back of your heel, the highly trained physicians at Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists in Atoka, Cordova, and East Memphis, Tennessee, can determine if your discomfort is from Achilles tendonitis. Don’t ignore your pain — get help from the foot and ankle experts at Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling the office today or scheduling an appointment online.

What is Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This tendon connects the calf muscle to the back of your heel. Though strong, the Achilles tendon is prone to injuries and inflammation from overuse. 

Achilles tendonitis usually occurs when overusing the tendon during exercise or using incorrect form while playing a sport.

There are two types of Achilles tendonitis:

Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis

Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis is inflammation in the middle part of your tendon. This type of Achilles tendonitis is more common in runners. 

Insertional Achilles tendonitis

Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower part of the tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone. This type of Achilles tendonitis affects all people but is also more common in runners.

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis?

Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon first thing in the morning is a common symptom of Achilles tendonitis. Other symptoms include:

• Pain along the heel or back of the ankle that gets worse with activity
• An increase in pain the day after exercise
• Thickening of the tendon
• Swelling
• Pain in the heel when you wear shoes

With Achilles tendonitis, you can manage your pain at home by resting the tendon and icing it for 15 minutes three to four times a day. 

Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists recommends coming in for an appointment if your pain doesn’t improve after a week of at-home care.

What happens during an Achilles tendonitis evaluation?

The experts at Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists conduct a thorough evaluation when you come in with symptoms that sound like Achilles tendonitis.

Your provider reviews your symptoms and usual activity and examines your ankle. They may have you engage in various tests to determine what type of Achilles tendonitis you have. They may request X-rays, an MRI, or ultrasound testing to confirm your diagnosis. 

What are the treatments for Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis improves over time but can take a few months. Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists may recommend:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy
• Cortisone injections
• Night splinting
• Change in shoewear
• Orthotics

If you have Achilles tendonitis pain that lasts more than six months, you may need surgery to remove the damaged portion of the tendon. 

For expert Achilles tendonitis care, call Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.