Achilles Tendonitis Can Hit Professional Athletes and Weekend Warriors

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and runs down the back of your lower leg, connecting the heel to the calf muscle. This tendon helps us with all motions including walking, jumping and running. The Achilles tendon is thick and strong enough to withstand forces of 1,000 pounds or greater! But it is also the most commonly injured tendon because of athletic injuries.

Because of overuse, an injury or stress, or degeneration, this tendon can become inflamed. You will know when you have damaged your Achilles tendon – here are some common symptoms:

  • Pain or aching at the back of the lower calf, especially after exercising or running
  • Pain that worsens over time
  • Swelling in the back lower calf area – even without exercising
  • Tenderness or stiffness in the lower calf, especially when stepping onto the floor when you first get up in the morning

Diagnosing and Treating Achilles Tendonitis

To diagnose Achilles tendonitis, we will assess your level of pain and swelling in the back of your heel and lower calf. We’ll ask you to stand on your toes, as this can be extremely painful and almost impossible with this type of injury.

Treatment for Achilles tendonitis can include:

  • Switching to non–impact exercises
  • Limiting the tendon’s motion with a walking boot or support bandage
  • Using custom–fitted orthotics to alleviate stress and strain on the tendon
  • Stretching of the tendon and surrounding area with physical therapy or proper at–home exercises
  • Using over–the–counter anti–inflammatory medications – with our doctor’s advice – to reduce pain and swelling

In severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary. If you think you may be suffering from an injury contact Cornerstone Foot & Ankle today!

Cornerstone Foot & Ankle is a full service foot and ankle specialty office with locations in Sewell, Cherry Hill, Marlton, Mt. Holly, Woodbury, and Glassboro; serving the South Jersey region. We offer a full suite of services including surgery, fracture care, fungal nail care, diabetic foot care, pediatric podiatry, custom braces and orthotics, wound care, limb salvage, and treatments for arch pain, heel pain, and sports injuries; just to name a few. If it hurts below your knee, we can help you!  CALL NOW or request your appointment online TODAY!

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