The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. This tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is used when walking, running, standing on toes, jumping, and climbing the stairs.

The Achilles tendon is prone to tendinitis, a condition associated with overuse and degeneration. With repetitive stress to the tendon. Other factors include sudden increase in the amount or intensity of activity, having tight calf muscles, or having bone spurs or extra bone growth.

Treatments for mild Achilles tendonitis include rest, ice, NSAIDs, and stretching exercises. Other ways to manage are through physical therapy, injections, supportive shoes ad orthotics, and ESWT. If these don’t relieve the pain after six months, surgical treatment should be considered to relieve Achilles tendonitis.

If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can worsen to a chronic condition and risk tendon rupture. Sometimes, the condition will develop additional bursitis, an inflammatory condition of the bursa. Tendinosis is a diffuse thickening of the tendon that may gradually develop because of the ongoing trauma and the cycle begins with an increased demand on the Achilles tendon. On the other hand, Achilles tendon rupture most often originate during strenuous physical activities such as tennis, basketball, and football. Retrocalcaneal bursitis usually affects elderly patients but also in athletes because of overuse.

If treated properly, Achilles tendonitis usually resolves quickly. It is best to see your podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment options.

For more information on Achilles tendonitis and heel pain, you may contact Dr. Kevin Lam’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com

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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!