Tendonitis Specialist

What is Achilles tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is a painful injury featuring microscopic tears and inflammation within your Achilles tendon. This tendon connects the bottom part of your calf muscles to your calcaneus or heel bone.  

Achilles tendonitis usually develops when you overuse or overstrain the tendon. This may happen when you increase your exercise regimen suddenly or if you don't warm up before exercise. 

What symptoms does Achilles tendonitis cause?

Achilles tendonitis usually causes symptoms that increase in severity without treatment. The most common symptom of Achilles tendonitis is soreness or pain in the back of your leg, above your heel. Pain often intensifies after long workouts. 

Stiffness is also typical, although it usually eases during the day. If your pain grows intrusive and keeps you from being active, schedule an appointment at West Suburban Podiatry as soon as possible. 

How does the doctor evaluate Achilles tendonitis?

Your West Suburban Podiatry specialist reviews your medical history and discusses your regular activities with you. They examine your foot, ankle, and calf and may ask you to flex your foot or make other movements. 

In some cases, you might need a diagnostic X-ray, which helps the doctor rule out other issues like bone fractures. X-rays can also show bone spurs at the top of the heel, which often occur alongside Achilles tendonitis. 

After confirming your tendinitis, your podiatrist formulates a plan for tendon repair and pain relief.

How is Achilles tendonitis treated? 

Achilles tendonitis treatment usually involves both clinical care and lifestyle changes. Your plan may include: 

• Ice application to reduce tendon swelling and pain
• Physical therapy to build strength and tendon support
• Anti-inflammatory medication to diminish inflammation and pain
• Custom orthotics to control movement and prevent further tendon harm
• Activity changes like warming up before exercise

MLS cold laser therapy is another cutting-edge treatment for Achilles tendonitis pain at West Suburban Podiatry. This laser system increases blood flow, speeds up your tendon regeneration, and eases your pain using light energy. MLS cold laser therapy is 85- 90% effective in reducing pain and inflammation. 

The West Suburban Podiatry team can help you recover from Achilles tendonitis with minimal discomfort or recovery time. Book your appointment by calling the office or scheduling online today.