Achilles Tripping You Up?

Achilles Tripping You Up?

The Achilles tendon is a very important tendon located on the back portion of the foot within the heel. It connects the heel to the calf muscle and aids in the flexing and moving of our feet and bodies. The Achilles tendon naturally receives a lot of stress during its day to day activities. Overuse, trauma, and other risks can cause problems that prevent a person from moving around freely. Here are some of the most common problems your Achilles can face and how to prevent them.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon is inflamed. This causes pain in the heel, especially when walking. It tends to come and go and progressively gets worse over time without treatment. The Achilles tendon can get small cuts within itself if inflammation is not properly treated. In rare cases, when this condition gets very bad, it can cause the rupture of the Achilles tendon.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

Overuse is the cause of most cases of Achilles Tendonitis. As the Achilles tendon is strained, it becomes more inflamed and swollen. This causes pain and the breakdown of the tendon. Athletes are more likely to suffer from this condition because they push their feet to the max on a regular basis. People who are flatfooted are also more likely to suffer from this condition. This is because more stress is put on the foot due to the lack of the arch.

Symptoms

  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Tenderness
  • Intense pain

Treatment

  • Immobilization is commonly used to heal this condition. This is because it prevents the tendon from being used and exacerbating the problem. It also gives the tendon time to heal properly.
  • Ice is often used to reduce swelling, inflammation and pain.
  • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medications may be prescribed to help relieve discomfort.
  • Orthotics can be made by a foot doctor that are custom for your feet. They fit right into the shoe and can alleviate symptoms and prevent further progression of Achilles tendonitis.
  • If your tendon hurts a lot at night, a night splint may be used to help prevent movement during sleep.

Achilles tendonitis can be a very painful condition. It can hurt so much that it can leave you immobile. If you are suffering from Achilles pain, call Dr. Alan J. Discont and Dr. Krahn of Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC located in Chandler, Arizona. The number is 480-732-0033 or make an appointment online today. Achilles tendonitis doesn’t have to interrupt your day.