Odds are that you’ve heard of Achilles tendonitis. Maybe a friend or relative contracted it, or one of your favorite athletes was taken out of the game by this painful condition. If you yourself have started to feel the telltale ache of Achilles tendonitis, you may be concerned about treatment, or fear a dramatic rupture of the tendon.

There’s no need to worry. The sooner you see a qualified podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment, the sooner you can start the healing process, and take precautions to prevent the worsening of your condition.

Symptoms

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and largest tendon in the body, connecting the leg to the foot as it stretches from the lower leg to the heel bone. This tendon is crucial to normal walking, as it allows the foot to rise up on the toes. If you are experiencing painful swelling in the back of your foot just above the heel, you may be suffering from Achilles tendonitis.

Achilles tendonitis is, at its most basic level, a strain of the Achilles tendon. The tendon naturally weakens with age, and strains are increasingly likely as you grow older, particularly if you suddenly increase the intensity of your workouts. Achilles tendonitis can also be caused by bone spurs and tight calf muscles.

How Do I Know I Have Achilles Tendonitis?

The sprain causes pain along the line of the Achilles tendon, particularly in the morning. The pain will also usually intensify after you run or participate in sports.

As Achilles tendonitis is best treated early in its development, speak with your trusted podiatrist if you are experiencing pain or swelling along the Achilles tendon. A consultation at our practice will give you the best chance possible for a full recovery.