Achilles tendonitis is a painful problem that affects the strong tendon that attaches the heel bone to the lower leg muscles. It often results from repetitive stress on the tendon, which leads to inflammation and pain.
Knowing the signs of Achilles tendonitis is essential to preventing further problems with the tendon. Without proper care and treatment, Achilles tendonitis worsens, causing tendon degeneration.
If you're worried about Achilles tendonitis, Dr. Marque A. Allen and the Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio team help diagnose the issue. Dr. Allen is an experienced foot and ankle specialist who enables you to understand your diagnosis and get back on your feet.
The Achilles tendon is a crucial component of your legs, and it's the tissue that connects the muscles in the calf to the heel of your foot. It's also the most significant tendon you have in the body.
Your Achilles tendon allows you to walk, jump, and climb stairs. It's also an essential component of your ability to run. The tissue enables you to move your foot up and down.
Although the Achilles tendon is highly durable, chronic wear-and-tear can lead to conditions like Achilles tendonitis. This condition happens when you put too much stress on the tendon too quickly, resulting in tiny traumatic tears.
The body's response to the damage is inflammation and pain. If you continue to stress the tendon, the body can't heal the tears quickly, causing even more damage and pain.
Many people are at risk for Achilles tendonitis, especially those who increase their activity quickly, which severely strains the tendon. Others who are at risk for the condition include those who:
You may also be at risk for Achilles tendonitis if you overpronate when you walk, which means your ankles roll in. The above conditions may lead to microtrauma in the tendon, causing chronic inflammation and discomfort.
If you're running more than usual or are highly active, it's essential to know the signs of Achilles tendonitis to prevent long-term damage. There are multiple signs and symptoms you may experience with Achilles tendonitis, but five of the prevalent warning signs include:
The inflammation with Achilles tendonitis may cause swelling around the back of the ankle or warmth. The swelling may always be present or get worse throughout the day, especially with activity.
Inflammation also stiffens the back of the heel and ankle, especially in the morning. When you don't move the affected tendon at night, it stiffens from inactivity due to chronic inflammation.
Pain is a common sign something is wrong with the Achilles tendon, especially when it hurts during movement. The pain is usually right over the tendon and back of the heel and worsens after activity.
Sneakers and other shoes may cause discomfort with Achilles tendonitis, especially when they press on the inflamed tendon.
One of the hallmark signs of Achilles tendonitis is tenderness when you press on the sides of the tendon. You may not have as much discomfort when pressing on the back of the tendon.
If you suspect Achilles tendonitis, you must take time to rest and seek treatment to avoid serious complications. The two main complications of advanced Achilles tendonitis are a tendon breakdown (tendinosis) and a complete rupture.
The best thing you can do is seek professional treatment to avoid serious complications. Dr. Allen typically offers nonsurgical treatment first, which consists of:
The Achilles tendon may take some time to heal, but you should notice your symptoms getting better within a few months. But if your pain continues after six months of treatment, it may be time to consider surgery.
Dr. Allen reserves surgery for severe cases of Achilles tendonitis that persist despite rest, home care, and conservative treatments because risks are involved. However, surgery is a great option and often is successful in treating Achilles tendonitis.
If you think you may have Achilles tendonitis, don't hesitate to call one of our offices in the greater San Antonio, Texas, area today or request a consultation on our website.
