What causes Achilles tendonitis?

Causes include sudden increases in physical activity, tight calf muscles, inadequate footwear, and activities that place excessive strain on the tendon, such as hill running or jumping sports.

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis?

Symptoms typically include pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after activity. Swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion may also be present.

How is Achilles tendonitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI may be used to evaluate the extent of tendon damage and rule out other conditions.

What treatments are available for Achilles tendonitis?

Treatment options include rest, ice application, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy exercises, orthotic devices, and in some cases, advanced therapies like extracorporeal shockwave therapy or surgery.

Can Achilles tendonitis be prevented?

Prevention strategies involve gradually increasing activity levels, performing regular calf stretches and strengthening exercises, wearing appropriate footwear, and avoiding sudden changes in training intensity.

When should I see a podiatrist for Achilles tendonitis?

If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it's advisable to consult a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

Achilles Tendonitis

What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is a condition caused by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the thick band of tissue connecting your calf muscles to your heel. This condition often results in pain, stiffness, and swelling at the back of the ankle, especially during physical activity.

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:

Pain or tenderness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after exercise.

Swelling or thickening of the tendon.

Stiffness in the lower leg.

Difficulty standing on tiptoes or climbing stairs.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is often caused by overuse or strain on the tendon. Common causes include:

Overtraining: Sudden increases in physical activity or intensity.

Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes without proper support.

Biomechanical Issues: Flat feet or high arches that place extra strain on the tendons.

Age-Related Changes: Reduced tendon elasticity with age.

Repetitive Movements: Activities like running, jumping, or climbing.

How JS Podiatry Treats Achilles Tendonitis

At JS Podiatry, we provide comprehensive care to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore tendon function. Our treatments include:

Shockwave Therapy: Stimulates the healing process and relieves pain by improving blood flow to the tendon.

Biomechanical Assessments: Identifying and addressing gait issues that contribute to strain on the Achilles tendon.

Custom Orthotics: Providing arch support and redistributing pressure to reduce strain on the tendon.

Stretching and Strengthening Programs: Tailored exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the surrounding muscles.

Prolotherapy: Stimulates the repair of damaged tissue in chronic cases.

Footwear Advice: Recommending supportive footwear to prevent further strain.

Why Choose JS Podiatry for Achilles Tendonitis Treatment?

Experienced Podiatrists: Our team specialises in treating sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions like Achilles tendonitis.

Advanced Therapies: We use cutting-edge treatments, including shockwave therapy and prolotherapy, for effective results.

Holistic Care: We focus on treating the root cause of your condition to prevent recurrence.

Accredited Clinic: We accept Medicare, DVA referrals, and offer private health fund rebates via HICAPS.

Convenient Location: Visit us at 14 Wickham Street, East Perth, WA, for expert podiatry care.

Preventing Achilles Tendonitis

To reduce the risk of Achilles tendonitis, we recommend:

Gradually increasing the intensity of physical activity.

Wearing proper footwear that provides adequate support.

Incorporating stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine.

Avoiding repetitive strain by alternating activities.

Book Your Appointment Today

Don’t let Achilles tendonitis hold you back. Contact JS Podiatry for expert care and effective treatment to restore your mobility and alleviate pain.

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FAQs:

Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury causing inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often results from repetitive stress and is common among runners and individuals who engage in activities that involve sudden starts and stops.
Causes include sudden increases in physical activity, tight calf muscles, inadequate footwear, and activities that place excessive strain on the tendon, such as hill running or jumping sports.
Symptoms typically include pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after activity. Swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion may also be present.
Diagnosis involves a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI may be used to evaluate the extent of tendon damage and rule out other conditions.
Treatment options include rest, ice application, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy exercises, orthotic devices, and in some cases, advanced therapies like extracorporeal shockwave therapy or surgery.
Prevention strategies involve gradually increasing activity levels, performing regular calf stretches and strengthening exercises, wearing appropriate footwear, and avoiding sudden changes in training intensity.
If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it's advisable to consult a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan.