Achilles Tendonitis Treatment in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, Phoenix

Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers

Podiatrist located in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa & Phoenix, AZ

If you have pain and swelling above your heel, Achilles tendonitis may be the problem. This condition can eventually turn into an incapacitating problem if you don’t get treatment promptly, but luckily there are excellent solutions available at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers. For fast pain relief that gets you moving again without worry, call the office nearest you or make your appointment online now.

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What is Achilles Tendonitis?

This is the band of tissues that connect your calf muscles to your heel bone. This injury typically results from repetitive stress on the tendon, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. If you look at torn Achilles tendon pictures, you can see that it can affect anyone.

Where is the Achilles Tendon?

It is located at the back of your ankle. It is the strongest and largest tendon in the body. It is crucial for walking, running, and jumping. This tendon allows you to lift your heel off the ground and push forward.

Achilles Tendon Rupture Symptoms

The symptoms of Achilles tendon injuries include:

Sudden, sharp pain at the back of the ankle
A popping sound at the time of injury
Difficulty walking
Swelling around the ankle
Inability to stand on your toes

Achilles Tendon Rupture Test

To find out the cause, we do an examination and use imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI. One common test is the Thompson test, where we squeeze the calf muscles to see if the foot moves. If it doesn’t, it could mean a tear or a rupture.

Achilles Tendon Pinch Test

It involves gently squeezing or pinching the tendon to assess for pain or tenderness. If the tendon is painful or tender when pinched, it can indicate inflammation or damage, such as Achilles tendonitis or a partial tear.

How to Cure Achilles Tendonitis Fast?

At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, we offer comprehensive Achilles tendonitis treatments, including:

Rest and Ice

First, you need to rest. Avoid activities that put stress on your tendon, such as running or jumping.
We apply ice to the affected to reduce pain and swelling. We use ice packs wrapped in a cloth and apply it to your tendon for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

Physical Therapy

Our therapists will design personalized exercises to strengthen your calf muscles, improve your flexibility, and support the healing process. Physical therapy for Achilles tendonitis may include:

Gentle stretches help to increase the flexibility of the tendon and surrounding muscles.
Targeted strengthening exercises focus on the calf muscles and the tendon to build strength in the supporting areas.

Medications

Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce your pain and inflammation. In some cases, we might prescribe stronger medications if needed. Based on your case, we might use topical treatments. We can apply directly to the affected area for targeted relief.

Orthotics

We help you with Orthotics. They are designed shoe inserts that provide additional support to help distribute pressure more evenly across your foot. In some cases, we might suggest adding a heel lift to your orthotics to reduce strain on the tendon.

Advanced Therapies

For more severe cases, we might use Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections. Achilles tendonitis injections involve injecting a concentrated solution of your platelets into the affected area to promote healing. These injections can accelerate your healing by enhancing tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment. It uses shock waves to stimulate healing in your tendon. We use ESWT to increase blood flow to the area, promote tissue repair, and reduce your pain.
We may use ultrasound therapy to provide deep heat treatment to your tendon. This treatment improves blood circulation, reduces pain, and accelerates healing.

Achilles Tendon Surgery

In cases of Achilles tendonitis not healing, we may recommend surgery. Our skilled surgeons will first perform a thorough assessment and imaging to determine the extent of the damage. During the surgery, we will make an incision to access the tendon, carefully repair or remove the damaged tissue, and possibly reinforce the tendon with sutures or grafts. After the surgery, we design a rehabilitation plan for your needs, including physical therapy to strengthen the tendon and restore flexibility. You will need regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure a full recovery and a return to normal movement.

Supportive Care

We teach you how to use compression wraps or bandages to help control swelling. We’ll also guide you on how to change your exercise routine, footwear, posture, and daily activities to avoid putting excess strain on your tendon.

How to Cure Achilles Tendonitis Fast for Kids?

Treating Achilles tendonitis in kids must be gentle to ensure quick recovery without compromising their growth:

We recommend taking a break from activities that cause pain, such as sports, to reduce inflammation and allow the tendon to heal.
We create customized exercise plans with gentle stretches and strengthening routines suited to your child’s age to improve flexibility and tendon strength and promote faster recovery.
We advise on shoes with good arch support and cushioning. It reduces strain on your tendon and prevents future issues.
Our physical therapy sessions include fun, engaging exercises that promote healing. We design these activities to keep your child motivated and help them recover effectively.

Achilles Tendon Rupture Recovery Time

Achilles tendon tear recovery time varies depending on the treatment approach.

Non-surgical treatments: They involve wearing a cast or walking boot. They take 3-6 months for initial healing, plus several more months of physical therapy to restore full strength and mobility.
Surgical treatments: Often require a more extended rehabilitation period, usually 6-12 months. This includes several weeks in a cast or boot, followed by a structured physical therapy program.

Best Shoes to Wear for Achilles Tendonitis

Wearing proper shoes is crucial for managing Achilles tendonitis. Look for shoes with:

Good arch support. It reduces strain on the tendon.
Cushioned soles to absorb shocks.
Heel lifts to take pressure off your tendon.
Proper fit. Don’t forget to avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose.

What Happens If You Ignore Achilles Tendonitis?

If you ignore Achilles tendonitis pain, it can result in chronic pain and a higher risk of tendon rupture. An injured can also cause long-term damage and limit your ability to perform daily activities. We suggest early treatment to properly prevent complications and ensure a full recovery.

Achilles Tendonitis Treatment Near Me in Phoenix

At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, we provide top-notch care right here in Phoenix and at our other convenient locations in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Mesa. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you find relief and get back to your active lifestyle. So, if you have Achilles tendon pain when walking, call us at (480) 812-3668 or contact us and schedule an appointment and start your journey to recovery.

FAQs

Does Achilles tendonitis ever go away?

Yes, with proper treatment and rest, Achilles tendonitis can heal over time.

What are the do's and don'ts of Achilles tendonitis?

Do rest and ice your tendon, wear supportive shoes, and follow your physical therapy exercises. Don’t ignore the pain or push through it, as this can worsen the condition.

Should I stretch my Achilles tendon if it hurts?

Gentle stretching can help, but avoid aggressive stretches that cause pain. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations.