Staying active is important for good health but sometimes, it can lead to foot and ankle problems including Achilles tendonitis. The good news is the condition typically improves with non-surgical treatments especially if you start as soon as symptoms appear.
At Advanced Care Foot and Ankle in Corona and Ontario, California, our highly skilled podiatric physicians understand the important role healthy feet play in an active lifestyle. Whether the problem is an injury like Achilles tendonitis or a chronic pain condition such as arthritis, we provide cutting-edge personalized care with treatments customized to each patient.
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis occurs when this tissue becomes swollen, irritated, and inflamed, most commonly due to repetitive stress and inadequate time to rest. It is a common complaint and affects about a quarter of athletes at some point during their lifetimes.
Symptoms can include heel and ankle pain along with stiffness, tenderness, and swelling around the tendon in the back part of the lower leg above the heel. Leg weakness may also occur.
Discomfort is often worse in the morning with improvement throughout the day. It may also spike after being physically active. Actions that particularly stress the Achilles tendon such as climbing stairs or walking uphill can trigger an increase in pain as well.
There are a number of reasons a person's Achilles tendon may hurt.
Spending a lot of time on one's feet such as at work can cause repetitive stress on the feet and ankles and not allow sufficient time to rest and recover.
Running, dancing, and playing sports with quick starts and stops can also cause problems. Weekend warriors or people who significantly increase their workout intensity can be at higher risk due to their bodies not being accustomed to the higher physical demands. Wearing worn-out shoes, exercising in cold weather, and running on hills can also contribute.
People with calf muscles that are tight or weak, those whose feet have flat arches, and individuals who overpronate with their ankles rolling down and inward when they walk are at higher risk. Anyone with bone spurs in their heel that can rub the tendon may experience Achilles tendonitis as well.
This condition is more common in men and occurs more frequently in people as they age. People who are obese, have psoriasis or high blood pressure or who take certain types of antibiotics can also be more likely to experience this condition.
Regardless of the cause, it is important to seek treatment as soon as symptoms develop for the fastest and easiest recovery. Our expert podiatrists provide a customized treatment plan that may include rest, ice, specific exercises, foot orthotics, and more. Click to book an appointment or call the Corona office at 951-735-8806 or the Ontario office at 909-983-5710 today.