Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis can cause chronic pain that diminishes your mobility without proper treatment. At Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, in Austin, Lakeway and Cedar Park, Texas, board-certified orthopedic surgeons Pedro E. Cosculluela, MD, and Andrew M. Ebert, MD, offer surgical and nonsurgical solutions for Achilles tendonitis to support your recovery and prevent long-term damage. Call the nearest office to schedule a consultation or book or appointment online to learn more.

What is Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon that stretches from your heel to the top of your calf becomes inflamed. The longest tendon in your body, the Achilles tendon helps you move your foot, point your toes downward, and perform various physical activities. When you injure this tendon, walking, jumping, and running become painful.

What are the signs of Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis symptoms can vary depending on the severity of your condition. Common signs include:

• Pain in the back of the heel
• Pain that worsens in the morning
• Stiffness
• Swelling along the tendon
• Redness
• Warmth
• Difficulty walking or running

As the condition progresses, it can change the way you walk. You may start to walk on your toes to avoid putting pressure on your heel, which can cause additional strain on your feet and lead to other foot and ankle problems.

What causes Achilles tendonitis?

Repetitive stress is the most common cause of Achilles tendonitis. Whether you’re an avid athlete or a weekend warrior, the repeated strain on your Achilles tendon can cause micro-tears in the tendon.

Many factors can increase your risk of developing Achilles tendonitis, such as:

• Overuse
• Tight calf muscles
• Improper footwear
• Flat feet
• High arches
• Older age
• Certain antibiotics and steroids

Increasing your activity levels too quickly can also cause Achilles tendonitis. For example, if you regularly run three miles a day, increasing your mileage to four miles without proper conditioning can strain your Achilles tendon.

How is Achilles tendonitis diagnosed?

Dr. Cosculluela and Dr. Ebert can typically diagnose Achilles tendonitis through a physical exam. After reviewing your medical and family history and discussing your symptoms, they check for swelling, tenderness, and pain along the tendon. Your doctor may also order X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to determine the severity of your condition.

How is Achilles tendonitis treated?

How Dr. Cosculluela and Dr. Ebert treat Achilles tendonitis depends on the damage to your tendon. Your care plan may include a combination of treatments, such as:

• R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
• Immobilization or bracing
• Antiinflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Custom-made orthotics
• Splint
• Surgery 

The sooner you seek treatment for Achilles tendonitis, the more likely you are to enjoy full recovery from pain. Call Austin Foot & Ankle Institute today or schedule an online appointment to find Achilles tendonitis relief.