Achilles tendinitis is a painful condition caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon, a thick fibrous band of tissue that stretches across the back of the leg to connect the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon plays an important role in our daily lives, bearing stress and pressure during both everyday and athletic activities. This constant use makes it more difficult for the body to repair the tendon when it is damaged. Achilles tendonitis can affect anyone but is most frequently seen in athletes who play high-intensity sports and those who are on their feet for prolonged periods. Achilles tendinitis occurs more often in men and becomes more common with age. If you believe you are suffering from Achilles tendonitis, seeking comprehensive orthopedic care is the best way to get back to doing what you love without pain. Our team of orthopedic and sports medicine specialists is here to help, offering both conservative and surgical treatment methods to our patients. Learn more below about the care we provide for Achilles tendinitis in Central GA, and contact your nearest OrthoGeorgia clinic location to schedule an appointment!
What are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis?
Tendinitis is irritation and inflammation of a tendon. Inflammation, which is your body’s response to injury or disease, can lead to the swelling and pain that is commonly associated with the condition. If left untreated, tendinitis can turn into a chronic condition called tendinosis, a breakdown of the tendon tissue that worsens over time. Achilles tendinitis can also increase your risk of a tendon rupture, which causes severe pain and a popping sensation in the heel.
Pain associated with Achilles tendinitis usually begins as a mild ache in the back of the lower leg or above the heel following physical activity. As you increase the frequency and duration of the activity, you may notice that your symptoms intensify, or that they are worse in the morning and improve slightly throughout the day. These symptoms can include:
Heel and ankle pain
Stiffness or tenderness in your Achilles tendon, especially in the morning
Severe pain after exercising
Swelling and thickening of the tendon
Leg weakness
Bony bump on the back of the heel
How is Achilles Tendinitis Diagnosed?
At OrthoGeorgia, our orthopedic specialists use advanced diagnostic techniques to evaluate foot and ankle discomfort and determine if you have injured your Achilles tendon. Accurate diagnosis is essential in determining the best treatment approach and supporting optimal healing and foot function. A physical examination is usually the first step, where your doctor will assess your pain levels, swelling, and range of motion. To confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the injury, we may also use:
X-ray: The imaging techniques used in X-rays will allow your doctor to rule out other foot and ankle conditions that may cause similar symptoms. X-rays are also an excellent way to tell if a patient has any bone spurs in the back of the heel, which are commonly associated with Achilles tendinitis.
Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to produce images of tendons, and can even produce real-time images of the Achilles tendon in motion.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Uses radio waves and strong magnets to produce detailed images of the tendon, allowing doctors to visualize tears.
Treatment for Achilles Tendinitis at OrthoGeorgia
Treatment methods for Achilles tendinitis depend on the severity of the condition and whether or not the tendon has ruptured. At OrthoGeorgia, we specialize in both nonsurgical and surgical treatment methods to restore strength and mobility for patients suffering from Achilles tendinitis. We strive to ensure that our patients feel comfortable and confident in their care plan every step of the way, encouraging them to ask questions throughout their journey with us.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Achilles Tendinitis
In most cases, Achilles tendinitis can be successfully treated with nonsurgical methods. Your doctor will advise you on how to manage your symptoms at home, as it may take a few months for symptoms to subside. Following the RICE method has proven to be an effective way to reduce pain and inflammation in cases of Achilles tendinitis. Components of this method include:
Rest: Pause activities that put stress on the damaged tendon. It is advised that you switch to low-impact activities, like swimming, in order to remain active as you heal.
Ice: Ice the tendon for up to 20 minutes at a time, as needed throughout the day.
Compression: Put pressure on the affected tendon using surgical or athletic tape.
Elevation: Keep your foot elevated whenever you are lying down to reduce swelling.
Additional nonsurgical treatment options for Achilles tendinitis include walking boot, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, shoe wear modifications (such as heel lifts), and activity modification. According to OrthoGeorgia foot and ankle specialist Dr. Oluwatosin Ojo, this is all that the majority of patients will need to treat their condition. Our team of specialists will determine the nonsurgical treatment options that are best suited to your unique case of Achilles tendinitis.
Achilles Tendinitis Surgery in Central GA
If your symptoms persist and begin to interfere with your daily life, your doctor might suggest surgical treatment. Surgery is also recommended for active individuals with a ruptured Achilles tendon.
During surgery for Achilles tendinitis, an incision is made in the back of the heel. If the tendon is ruptured, the surgeon will stitch it back together. If it is degenerated, the surgeon may remove the damaged portion and repair the rest of the tendon. In certain cases, the damaged tendon may need to be reinforced with a tendon from elsewhere in the body (such as the foot). After treatment, your lower leg will be placed in a cast or splint to allow it to heal. As you recover at home, please reach out to our office if you experience severe pain, swelling, or fever. You should be sure to follow your doctor’s recovery instructions closely, including attending your follow-up appointments and starting physical therapy when instructed. A personalized physical therapy routine will help you regain strength and mobility in your leg and support the healing process.
Other Foot and Ankle Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
At OrthoGeorgia, we are proud to provide comprehensive care for all manner of orthopedic injuries and conditions, helping patients of all ages get back to doing what they love. Whether you are facing mild heel and ankle pain or think that your Achilles tendon has ruptured, our team of specialists will be here to provide an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. In addition to Achilles tendinitis, our specialists treat a wide range of foot and lower extremity conditions in Central GA, including:
Happy Memorial Day! OrthoGeorgia will be closed on Monday, May 26th. Both Urgent Care locations will be closed May 24-26 and will reopen at 7:30am on Tuesday, May 27th.
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