Understanding Achilles Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
By Sport Ortho Urgent Care
If you’ve ever felt a sharp or persistent pain in the back of your ankle, especially after exercise or first thing in the morning, you might be dealing with Achilles tendonitis—a common overuse injury that affects one of the strongest tendons in your body.
At Sport Ortho, we specialize in identifying and treating orthopedic conditions like Achilles tendonitis with a conservative, patient-first approach. Our goal is to help you recover fully and get back to doing the activities you love—without unnecessary surgery.
What Is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. This tendon plays a critical role in walking, running, jumping, and just about every movement involving your lower legs.
Common Causes
Achilles tendonitis is often caused by repetitive stress or a sudden increase in activity. Some of the most common causes include:
- Overtraining or suddenly increasing intensity during workouts
- Poor footwear that lacks proper support
- Tight calf muscles or lack of stretching
- Running on hard or uneven surfaces
- Improper form or biomechanics
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms typically develop gradually and may include:
- Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon
- Discomfort that worsens with activity
- Tenderness when touched
- A “creaking” sensation when moving the ankle
Conservative Treatment Options
Most cases of Achilles tendonitis can be treated effectively with non-surgical methods. At Sport Ortho, our orthopedic and physical therapy teams work together to create a personalized recovery plan. Common treatments include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy to reduce inflammation
- Targeted physical therapy focused on stretching and strengthening
- Orthotics or supportive footwear
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Ultrasound or manual therapy techniques
When to See a Specialist
If symptoms persist for more than a week, worsen over time, or begin to interfere with your daily life, it’s time to seek professional care. Ignoring Achilles tendonitis can lead to more serious injuries, including tendon tears or chronic tendinopathy.
Why Choose Sport Ortho Urgent ?
Our team takes pride in offering comprehensive orthopedic care that focuses on healing through physical therapy, education, and lifestyle modifications. We’re not just here to treat the pain—we’re here to address the root cause and help you prevent future injuries.
Don’t let heel pain slow you down.
If you think you may be suffering from Achilles tendonitis, schedule an appointment with our orthopedic team today. We’re here to help you take your next step pain-free!
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