By Fords Foot and Ankle Care
📍 519 New Brunswick Ave, Fords, NJ 08863
📞 (732) 738-4441
🌐 fordsfootandanklecare.com
Understanding Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping. However, overuse or strain can cause this powerful tendon to become inflamed—a condition known as Achilles tendonitis.
At Fords Foot and Ankle Care, we frequently treat patients struggling with Achilles tendonitis and help them return to pain-free mobility. Whether you’re an athlete, an active professional, or just someone who enjoys daily walks, this blog will help you understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments of Achilles tendonitis.
What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is usually an overuse injury. Some common causes include:
- Sudden increase in activity level, such as running longer distances or increasing exercise intensity
- Tight calf muscles or lack of flexibility
- Improper footwear or worn-out shoes lacking support
- Flat feet or overpronation, which puts additional stress on the tendon
- Age-related degeneration (common in people over 40)
Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
Patients with Achilles tendonitis typically experience:
- Pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, especially in the morning or after rest
- Swelling or thickening along the tendon
- Tenderness when touched
- Pain during activity, such as walking or climbing stairs
- A squeaking or creaking sound (crepitus) when moving the ankle
If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can worsen and may lead to a partial or complete tendon tear, which could require surgical intervention.
Treatment Options at Fords Foot and Ankle Care
We provide a personalized, step-by-step approach to treat Achilles tendonitis. Treatment may include:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
Reducing or modifying activities that aggravate the tendon is essential to allow healing.
2. Ice and Anti-inflammatory Medications
Icing the tendon and taking NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce inflammation and pain.
3. Stretching and Physical Therapy
We guide patients through calf stretches and eccentric strengthening exercises to relieve strain on the tendon.
4. Orthotic Devices
Custom orthotics or heel lifts may be prescribed to reduce stress and support the foot structure.
5. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
A non-invasive technique that promotes healing by stimulating blood flow to the damaged tendon tissue.
6. Immobilization
In more severe cases, a walking boot or brace may be recommended to limit motion and allow the tendon to heal.
7. Surgical Repair (Rare Cases)
If conservative treatments fail or there is a rupture, surgical intervention may be necessary. We discuss all risks and benefits thoroughly before recommending this step.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to recover from Achilles tendonitis?
A: Recovery can take a few weeks to several months, depending on severity and patient compliance with treatment. Early intervention leads to faster recovery.
Q: Should I continue exercising with Achilles tendonitis?
A: High-impact activities like running should be avoided. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling may be acceptable—our team will guide you on safe options.
Q: Is Achilles tendonitis the same as a rupture?
A: No. Tendonitis is inflammation, while a rupture is a tear. However, untreated tendonitis can increase the risk of rupture.
Q: Can Achilles tendonitis come back?
A: Yes, especially if the underlying causes (like flat feet or improper footwear) aren’t addressed. That’s why long-term care and prevention strategies are key.
Q: When should I see a podiatrist?
A: If you experience persistent heel pain, stiffness, or swelling that doesn’t improve with rest, schedule an appointment right away.
Why Choose Fords Foot and Ankle Care?
At Fords Foot and Ankle Care, we combine clinical expertise, state-of-the-art diagnostics, and personalized care plans to ensure optimal outcomes. We treat each patient with the attention and compassion they deserve.
Don’t let Achilles tendon pain slow you down—we’re here to help you step forward with confidence.
Contact Us
📍 Fords Foot and Ankle Care
519 New Brunswick Ave
Fords, NJ, 08863
📞 Phone: (732) 738-4441
🌐 Website: fordsfootandanklecare.com
Get back on your feet—schedule your consultation today!