Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed due to continued stress. This can be the result of ongoing physical exertion of the tendon when exercising, unsupportive footwear, or even the weakening of the tendon with age. While this condition can be exceptionally painful for many patients, it can be detrimental to an athlete's career. Dr. Chanda J. Corbin offers individualized Achilles tendonitis treatment for her patients with varying activity levels in Romeo, MI. From conservative options such as orthotics to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and surgery, Dr. Corbin can work with you to find a treatment that provides you with the best solution for your activity level.
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. There are two types of Achilles tendonitis: noninsertional and insertional. Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis affects the middle portion of the tendon. It is typically seen in younger, more active patients. Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower section of the tendon where it attaches to the heel. This form of the condition is often accompanied by bone spurs.
Signs & Symptoms
You may be suffering from Achilles tendonitis if you are experiencing:
- Pain and stiffness along the tendon
- Limited range of motion when flexing your foot
- Tight calf muscles
- Discomfort or swelling that worsens after activity
These symptoms can make it difficult to walk, exercise, or even lead to deformity of your heel bone.
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
Repetitive stress is typically the root cause of Achilles tendonitis. However, other factors can contribute to the condition including wearing high heels or ill-fitting shoes on a regular basis, having bone spurs, or even failing to warm up properly prior to exercise. While many physical activities tend to contribute to this condition, you do not need to be particularly active to develop it.
Treatment Tailored to Your Needs
Dr. Corbin believes in the importance of customizing treatment for all patients by taking the time to listen to their preferences and needs when making recommendations. To accommodate a variety of patients, she offers both conservative and non-surgical treatments as well as PRP therapy.
It is of the utmost importance that patients address any pain in the heel or foot as soon as possible. Do not put yourself at risk for further injury.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For patients who do not wish to undergo surgery or whose symptoms do not warrant surgical intervention, Dr. Corbin may recommend a number of non-surgical treatments, including:
- RICE Method
- The combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation is often effective if administered immediately after an injury.
- Orthotic Insoles
- Achilles tendonitis can begin to heal if patients reduce the strain on the tendon with heel-lifting orthotics. Custom orthotic insoles can be provided through a trusted local company.
- Casts
- If your Achilles tendonitis has worsened to the point of rupture, a cast may be provided to prevent stretching and strain while keeping the tendon in a flexed position.
- Physical Therapy
- Stretching, massage, and movement can help heal the tendon by decreasing tension and restoring regular motion.
Surgical Care
Patients who do not find relief from conservative treatments or who suffer from chronic issues and tears may benefit from surgery to remove, repair, or reconstruct the damaged tendon. As a board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Corbin can provide safe, precise surgical care to effectively eradicate the issue.
PRP Therapy
Dr. Corbin may also utilize PRP therapy to stimulate recovery by increasing collagen reproduction. PRP therapy uses your own biological material from your blood which is then injected into the treatment area. Often, it is provided to athletes who are in need of a shorter downtime and decreased chances of re-injury. In some cases, PRP therapy may be provided as an alternative to surgery while for others it may be used to aid in recovery in conjunction with their surgical procedure.
Seek Treatment Immediately
It is of the utmost importance that patients address any pain in the heel or foot as soon as possible. Do not put yourself at risk for further injury. Contact Dr. Corbin online or by phone at (586) 372-7200 to schedule an appointment to treat your Achilles tendonitis.
Do not let foot and ankle problems slow you down. Put your best foot forward with the professionals at Washington Foot and Ankle. Call (586) 372-7200 to make a same-day appointment or schedule online. We will be more than happy to help you get back on your feet.
