Achilles Tendonitis

Overuse injuries like Achilles tendinitis aren’t serious. But when left untreated, they can lead to complications like an Achilles tendon tear. Podiatrists Ankur Bahri, DPM, and Sandeep Sandhu, DPM, at Specialized Foot and Ankle Care in Carteret, Perth Amboy, and Edison, New Jersey, offer personalized treatment plans for Achilles tendinitis that promote healing and prevent further damage. Call the office nearest you today or schedule an appointment using the online booking button for comprehensive podiatric care.

What is Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon. This thick, fibrous band connects the lower part of the hamstring (calf muscle) to the heel. The Achilles tendon allows you to walk, run, and climb. Achilles tendinitis is inflammation of the tendon.

The injury causes mild pain in the back of the leg above the heel that gets worse with prolonged activity. Achilles tendinitis can cause stiffness and tenderness in the leg following extended inactivity.

What causes Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis occurs from excessive strain or repetitive use of the tendon.

This overuse injury commonly affects people who engage in high-intensity sports like running and basketball. You’re more likely to strain the tendon if you suddenly increase the length or intensity of your workout.

Achilles tendinitis is often seen in older adults who play recreational sports on weekends. The infrequent activity combined with age-related degeneration of the Achilles tendon increases the risk of injury.

When should I see a foot and ankle specialist for Achilles tendinitis?

You can manage Achilles tendinitis with at-home care like rest and over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication. However, if your symptoms last over a week, get worse, or affect your daily routine, you should schedule an appointment at Specialized Foot and Ankle Care.

The team reviews your symptoms, asking when they started and what activities caused the injury. They also ask about your medical history and complete a physical exam. The team might also request imaging studies of the ankle to rule out other conditions that could explain your symptoms.

How long does Achilles tendinitis take to heal?

The healing time from Achilles tendinitis varies and depends on how severe the injury is. While most people feel better within six to eight weeks, a severe injury can take six to 12 months to heal.

Treatment for Achilles tendinitis includes:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy
• Orthotics (custom-fitted shoe inserts)
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections

If your symptoms continue beyond six months of conservative care, the team at Specialized Foot and Ankle Care will recommend surgery to remove damaged tissue or lengthen the calf muscle.

At Specialized Foot & Ankle Care, Dr. Sandhu or Dr. Bahari treat patients for bunions, diabetic foot care, athlete foot, sports injuries, heel pain, and more. We are a foot and ankle specialist practice located in New Jersey. Call us to book your appointment today.