Achilles Tendonitis
If you’ve been experiencing constant pain at the back of your heel, and around your calf, Achilles tendonitis might just be the cause.
Overuse of the tendon can cause it to get inflamed resulting in the pain you feel. It is important you contact a physical therapist once you begin to experience symptoms, so your leg can be examined, and a treatment program created for you.
At Polygon PT, we are excited to give you a comfortable life without pain. Contact us today to get started.
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and you use it when you when walk, run, jump, stand on your toes and climb the stairs.
As strong as this tendon is, continuous activities can make it prone to inflammation – this is what is called Achilles tendonitis.
There are two types of Achilles tendonitis. They include:
- Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower back of the tendon which attaches to the heel bone. Bones spurs may form simultaneously.
- Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis affects the fibers in the middle area of the tendon. This area begins to break down with tiny tears and might swell and thicken. It usually affects young and active persons.
In both types of tendonitis, the damaged fibers can also harden.
Achilles tendonitis can happen to anyone, whether athletes or everyday people.
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
The major cause of Achilles tendonitis is repetitive stress to the tendons. This often occurs with intense physical activity involving the tendon.
Repetitive activities that place stress on the tendon might include:
Sudden increase in the intensity of physical activity
Not warming up properly before exercises
Wearing old, poorly fitted shoes or inappropriate shoes for an activity
Wearing high heels every day or for long periods
Strain to the calf muscles
Playing sports such as tennis, or basketball that requires quick stops and change in direction
Having bone spurs
Aging. As you get old, your Achilles tendon weakens
Common symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
Pain and stiffness at the back of the heel usually in the morning
Pain in the Achilles tendon that increases with activity
Thickened tendons
Tight calf muscles
Swelling in the backside of the heel
Bone spurs
Limited range of motion when you flex your foot
You might also experience a sudden pop in your calf or heel when the tendon tears.
Diagnosing Achilles Tendonitis
At polygon PT, a physical therapist will examine your ankle and foot to determine the location of the damage.
Your therapist will also ask you about your activities, and when you started experiencing the symptoms.
You might be required to undergo imaging tests, although they are not really necessary to diagnose Achilles tendonitis. If required, the tests include X-rays, MRI-scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or ultrasound.
Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis
Physical therapy is effective for treating Achilles tendonitis. Your physical therpaist will create a custom treatment plan just for you.
Your therapist will prescribe:
- Rest. Give your foot a break, and discontinue activities that worsen the pain. If you are involved in high-impact activities such as running, you can switch to low-impact activities that will put less stress on the tendon.
- Ice. Applying ice on the affected area can help to reduce swelling and pain. You can do this 2-3 times daily for at least 30 minutes. Wearing a brace for a period of time to relieve pressure on the Achilles tendon
- Manual therapy. Gentle massages around the affected area to release tension and improve blood flow.
- Strengthening and motion exercises to increase the flexibility of the foot.
Your therapist will also teach you stretching exercises that you can do at home for a quicker recovery.
Recovery for Achilles tendonitis usually takes a couple of months. If you left your symptoms untreated for a long time, it may take longer for complete recovery.
Get Started With Physical Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis Today
You don’t have to live with tendonitis pain any longer. Physical therapy can help you get rid of your pain in the shortest time.
You can get back to everyday activities, sports, or your favorite hobby without worry about pain. Request an appointment with a physical therapist right away.
