The Achilles tendon joins the calf muscles and the heel bone. This tendon is very important to routine mobility using the foot and is actually the toughest tendon in the body. It is a band of fibrous tissue that assists with pointing the foot down, to stand on the toes, and to thrust the foot forward when moving. Tendinitis is when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed and weakened, causing variable levels of discomfort and putting a significant hindrance on mobility. When this condition is not looked after with care, the tendon can rupture and break. The middle portion of the Achilles tendon can be specifically targeted when there is a frequent amount of stress placed on the tendon, such as when playing sports. This condition can also be caused by chronic arthritis, which places pressure on the Achilles tendon.
Treatment for Achilles tendon pain includes:
● Utilizing pain-killing medications to alleviate the discomfort caused by this condition.
● Resting the tendon as much as possible post-injury to assist with a full recovery.
● Refrain from placing weight on the foot with the injured tendon. This can be achieved by using support devices.
● Elevating the injured tendon to reduce swelling.
● Participating in physical therapy to stretch the tendon.
● Using the correct shoes to provide support and to prevent other high-intensity activities from irritating the tendon.
Achilles tendon discomfort can be a minor ache or months-long painful situation that will require significant rehabilitation. Here at the Foot Care Specialists, PC, located in Quincy (The South Shore, Boston, Metro West area) and Dedham (Boston, Metro West), Massachusetts, our podiatrist, our podiatrist Dr. Marshall L. Lukoff, is committed to providing you with the best chance of a speedy recovery and determine the best course of action for you and your Achilles tendon. Please make an appointment with our offices.