What causes tendonitis?
Tendonitis occurs when any of the fibrous bands in your lower extremities become inflamed, usually because of frequent stress or overuse.
While any tendon can become injured, usually tendonitis occurs in your Achilles tendon, which is responsible for connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone.
Your Achilles tendon, as well as other foot and ankle tendons, stretch and contract with every step you take. Wear-and-tear and older age can certainly increase your risk of chronic inflammation, although tendonitis is also often linked to any of the following factors:
- Poor warmups, found frequently with weekend warriors
- Increasing your workout duration, weight, or intensity too fast
- Having flat feet, high arches, or tight tendons
In some cases, arthritic conditions lead to tendonitis issues, too. Because tendonitis can certainly progress and worsen with each step, come in to Parkchester Family Podiatry PC as soon as you experience any discomfort in your lower extremities.
Do I need to see a podiatrist for tendonitis?
Yes. Ignoring your tendonitis symptoms can lead to tendon weakening over time, which can become a serious issue. It’s important to come in to Parkchester Family Podiatry PC for a tendonitis evaluation if you’re noticing any of the following issues:
- Swelling near your heel or ankle
- Pain in your lower leg, ankle, or foot
- Discomfort that gets worse with activity
You also need to see a podiatrist for tendonitis if your symptoms are severe enough to impact your job or sports performance.
The podiatrists at Parkchester Family Podiatry PC provide thorough diagnostic and imaging services, so they can get to the root of your tendon pain quickly.
How does a podiatrist treat tendonitis?
Once your podiatrist diagnoses you, they educate you about tendonitis treatments designed to relieve your symptoms fast, while also promoting tendon healing. Your tendonitis treatment plan might include:
- Physical therapy
- Custom orthotics
- Cortisone shots
- Casting or splinting
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy)
Conservative tendonitis treatments such as these are typically very effective for improving your condition. Sometimes, though, surgical intervention is necessary.
Your dedicated podiatrist might recommend surgery to repair your tendon and remove damaged tissues, as well as to graft any areas that need strengthening.
Before suffering from tendonitis another day, contact Parkchester Family Podiatry PC for an exam so you can get started on treatment quickly. Book your tendonitis appointment online or by phone.
