Achilles Tendonitis Treatment in Pembroke Pines & Plantation
Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It commonly affects runners who increase their training too quickly and middle-aged adults who play sports occasionally. At Daniel Bell, DPM - Foot & Ankle Institute, Daniel Bell, DPM diagnoses Achilles problems early and uses advanced, non-invasive treatments to help the tendon heal and keep you active.
What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, and it works every time you walk, run, jump, or climb stairs. Repeated stress can cause tiny tears and inflammation. Common contributing factors include:
- Sudden increases in running mileage or intensity
- Tight calf muscles
- Running on hills or hard surfaces
- Worn-out or unsupportive shoes
- Flat feet or other alignment problems
- Bone spurs at the back of the heel
- Age-related changes that make the tendon less flexible
Symptoms to Watch For
- Pain and stiffness along the back of the leg near the heel, especially in the morning
- Pain that worsens with activity or the day after exercise
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon
- Tenderness when squeezing the tendon
- A creaking sensation when moving the ankle
Sudden severe pain or a “pop” at the back of the ankle may signal a tendon rupture and needs immediate evaluation. Achilles pain is often confused with other causes of ankle pain or heel pain, so an accurate diagnosis is important.
Achilles Tendonitis Treatment Options
Most patients improve with conservative care. Your plan may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Calf stretching and eccentric strengthening exercises
- Ice and anti-inflammatory medication
- Heel lifts and custom orthotics
- Bracing or a walking boot for severe flare-ups
- Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing in chronic cases
- RPW therapy to improve blood flow and reduce pain
When the tendon is severely damaged or does not respond to treatment, foot and ankle surgery may be recommended to repair or lengthen the tendon.
Getting Back to Activity
As part of our sports medicine care, we guide you through a gradual return to running and sports to reduce the risk of re-injury. View other conditions we treat.
Achilles Tendonitis FAQs
How long does Achilles tendonitis take to heal?
Mild cases may improve in a few weeks, while chronic tendonitis can take several months. Early treatment shortens recovery.
Can I run with Achilles tendonitis?
Running through Achilles pain can worsen the injury. Reducing activity and following a treatment plan is the safest way to return to running.
What is the difference between tendonitis and tendinosis?
Tendonitis involves inflammation, while tendinosis refers to chronic degeneration of the tendon. Both are treated as Achilles tendon injuries.
Does shockwave therapy work for Achilles tendonitis?
Shockwave therapy is often used for chronic Achilles tendon pain to stimulate healing and reduce pain without surgery.
Should I stretch my Achilles if it hurts?
Gentle calf stretching is often part of treatment, but aggressive stretching during a flare-up can cause more irritation. Follow your doctor’s guidance.
Can shoes cause Achilles tendonitis?
Worn-out or unsupportive shoes and sudden switches to flat footwear can increase strain on the Achilles tendon.
When is surgery needed for the Achilles tendon?
Surgery may be recommended for a ruptured tendon or chronic tendon damage that has not improved after months of conservative care.
Relieve Achilles Pain and Stay Active
Don’t let Achilles pain sideline you. Call (954) 942-5005 - Pembroke Pines Office or (954) 942-5005 - Plantation Office or request an appointment online with Dr. Bell in Pembroke Pines or Plantation.