Achilles Tendonitis Specialist
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Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio
Marque A. Allen, DPM, FACFAS
Foot and Ankle Reconstructive Surgery located in Alamo Heights, TX & San Antonio, TX
If you’re a physically active individual who enjoys running or playing sports, you’re also more likely to experience Achilles tendonitis. Though painful, with early diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to prevent the condition from getting worse. At Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio, double board-certified podiatrist Marque Allen, DPM, provides comprehensive care for people suffering from Achilles tendonitis. To make an appointment at one of the two locations in San Antonio, Texas and Alamo Heights, Texas, call the nearest office today or click the online booking feature.
Achilles Tendonitis Q & A
What is Achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is a painful overuse injury that affects the Achilles tendon –– a band of fibrous tissue that connects your calf muscle to your heel. The tendon helps you perform routine motions, like walking, jumping, or standing on the balls of your feet.
Anyone can develop Achilles tendonitis, but it’s especially common in athletes and other physically active individuals.
What are the types of Achilles tendonitis?
There are two types of Achilles tendonitis:
Insertional Achilles tendonitis
Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower part of your Achilles tendon that’s nearest your heel bone.
Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis
Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis affects the fibers in the middle of your Achilles tendon. It’s more common in kids and teenagers who are active.
What are the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis?
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:
- Swelling at the back of your heel
- Tight calf muscles
- Limited range of motion
- Skin that feels warm to the touch
As the condition gets worse, you might also find it difficult to stand or place weight on your affected foot.
What causes Achilles tendonitis?
In the majority of cases, Achilles tendonitis occurs due to repetitive physical activities, like excessive exercise. There are even certain sports that increase your risk of the condition, such as tennis, soccer, and basketball.
Other factors that contribute to the condition include failing to warm up properly, being middle-aged or older, and having bone spurs.
How is Achilles tendonitis diagnosed?
To diagnose Achilles tendonitis, Dr. Allen reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including their severity and if any activities make them worse. Next, he has you walk around the exam room and stand on the balls of your feet.
Dr. Allen gently presses on your heel and calf to see if there are areas that are sensitive, swollen, or warm to the touch. If these steps don’t provide enough information, Dr. Allen might order diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. These procedures capture detailed photos of your hard and soft tissues.
How is Achilles tendonitis treated?
Whenever possible, Dr. Allen treats Achilles tendonitis at Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio using conservative, noninvasive means. For example, you might benefit from:
- Reducing your physical activity
- Ice and heat therapy
- Physical therapy
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- Wearing a cast or walking boot
- Wearing custom orthotics
- Elevating your foot to reduce swelling
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
- Topical CBD products
If your symptoms get worse or they interfere with your ability to go to work or play sports, surgical intervention might be necessary. There are several procedures that can repair torn or ruptured Achilles tendons both safely and effectively.
To receive treatment for Achilles tendonitis, make an appointment at Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio by calling the nearest office today or clicking the online booking feature.
