Achilles Tendon Specialist

What conditions can affect the Achilles tendon?

The Achilles tendon connects the muscles in your calf to your heel bone. Every step you take involves the Achilles tendon, which makes it susceptible to certain injuries, including:

Achilles tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This can be caused by overuse, repetitive movements, and direct trauma to the tendon.

Achilles tendinosis

Achilles tendinosis develops as a result of chronic Achilles tendinitis. With tendinosis, the tendon begins to break down and microtears can appear, making the Achilles tendon weaker and more prone to complications, including rupture.

Achilles tendon rupture

Achilles tendon rupture is a severe injury in which the entire Achilles tendon is torn. This may occur after Achilles tendinosis, if it’s not treated, or direct trauma to the tendon.

The team determines your diagnosis following a thorough exam and any necessary imaging and provides treatment options based on your unique condition and symptoms.

What are the signs of an Achilles tendon injury?

Achilles tendon injuries vary in severity, which can cause a wide range of mild to severe symptoms. Common signs of Achilles tendon injuries include:

• Pain, tenderness, or swelling in your Achilles tendon
• A bump on the back of your heel where your Achilles tendon inserts
• Pain in your heel when lifting your toes upward, such as during walking or running
• Pain that’s worse with high impact movements, including running and jumping
• Stiffness or tightness in the calf muscles
• Bruising around the heel or calf in cases of tendon ruptures
  

Achilles tendon injuries can also cause mild to severe disability and may limit your ability to walk, run, or jump without pain.

How are Achilles tendon injuries treated?

Since Achilles tendon injuries range widely, the team approaches treatment in multiple ways to reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling while also improving the function of your tendon. Treatment options include:

• Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
• Adipose/Fat therapy
• TenJet Tenotomy
• Physical therapy
• Bracing or athletic taping

The therapies available are all minimally invasive so you can avoid surgery and recover as quickly as possible without the need for a lengthy recovery period. In some cases, surgery may be recommended, and the team provides referrals as appropriate.

To schedule an exam of your Achilles tendon, book online or call Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine now.