How Do You Know You Have Achilles Tendonitis?

Maintaining an active lifestyle is necessary for overall health and wellness. Not only is movement necessary for our physical health, but it also improves mood and cognitive health. When injuries get in the way of that movement, it can drastically affect each aspect of our well-being. Knowing what is causing us pain is the first step to finding treatment. Achilles tendonitis is a condition of the Achilles tendon that can severely disrupt your ability to engage in an active lifestyle.

Find out more about Achilles tendonitis, from how to spot the signs to what you can do to treat it.

Common Signs of Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is a thick tissue band connecting the calf muscles to the heel. It is vital for the proper functioning of the foot and leg. Often, due to injury or age, the tendon can be inflamed, which worsens with use.

Signs you have Achilles tendonitis can include:

• Pain after movement, such as walking or running
• Pain that lessens with disuse
• Stiffness
• Swelling of the area around the heel
• Difficult standing on one toe
• The heel or back of the calf being tender or painful to the touch

Though all these signs can allude to Achilles tendonitis, two main factors that point to the condition are difficulty or pain with walking and running and pain, tenderness, or swelling that is localized to the area of the Achilles tendon.

What Are Treatment Options for Achilles Tendonitis?

Treatment will vary on injury history, age, extent of pain, and other factors that are individual to you. Typically, conservative measures, such as rest, are implemented first. However, some people may see little benefit to resting, with pain returning after that period. A total cessation of activity may, in some cases, actually worsen the condition due to declining levels of circulation.

When conservative methods aren’t helpful, medications, physical therapy, or even surgery may be recommended. The best way to determine the extent of your Achilles tendonitis and which treatment course is right for you is to undergo an examination.

Achilles Tendonitis Exam and Treatment at Utah Orthopaedics

Achilles tendonitis can be a disruptive condition that may not go away. Finding comprehensive help can allow you to return to your life.

At Utah Orthopaedics, we have been helping those with orthopaedic pain find relief for years. Located and serving Ogden, UT, as well as the surrounding communities, we would love to be able to help you, too.

To get started on Achilles tendonitis treatment, call us at 801-917-8001 or complete our online form.