The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the foot and links the calf muscles to the heel bone. This is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. The Achilles tendon plays an essential role in the foot and ankle movement. It helps us stand on our toes, flex the calves, and roll the foot. These movements help us to walk, run, jump, and stand on tiptoes.
Although this tendon is resilient, the Achilles is subjected to a lot of force during sports and other activities. It makes it prone to injury. An Achilles injury is a common foot problem that our podiatrists treat. If you feel pain in the back of the foot or have Achilles problems in Newtown, PA, visit Newtown Foot and Ankle Specialists in Bucks County. Our doctors can put you back on the road to recovery with specialized care for your needs.
Common Achilles Problems
Many patients with Achilles tendon injuries and problems are athletic and active, leading to what is called an “overuse” injury. This type of sports injury should be cared for by a podiatrist. But Achilles problems have other causes. Our doctors and providers can offer the specialized care and advice needed to resolve the diagnosed problem. They will even work with you to help prevent recurrence in the future.
Common Achilles problems can include:
Achilles Tendonitis
This is inflammation of the Achilles tendon. It can occur from repetitive stress (overuse), improper stretching, or an injury. We see this injury in runners and other athletes that repetitively jump or push off the foot. Tight or weak calf muscles, a sudden increase in physical exertion, and improper footwear can contribute to this problem.
Achilles Tendinosis
Unlike Achilles tendonitis, Achilles Tendinosis is a non-inflammatory condition. It occurs due to repetitive strain and overuse of the tendon over time without proper rest and recover. This creates microtears, collagen breakdown, and changes in the structure and composition of the tendon.
Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the tendon. You can often feel this pain in the morning or after periods of rest.
Achilles Tear
A torn Achilles tendon is when the tendon has micro tears or large tears. This is a more serious injury. This type of injury is seen in activities that involves sudden, forceful, and explosive movements of the foot and ankle.
You can tear your Achilles if you jump, pivot, or run. An Achilles tear will result in swelling and discomfort when you walk.
Achilles Rupture
A complete tear of the Achilles tendon is called an Achilles rupture. Here, the full tendon has become completely torn or separated from the bone and/or muscle. This is a severe injury that will need medical attention.
Achilles tendon ruptures can be caused by sudden, forceful movement or a chronic degenerative process. These problems result in sudden pain, difficulty walking, and a feeling of being kicked in the calf. A rupture will often require surgery to repair.
Xanthomas of the Achilles Tendon
Xanthomas are small and benign bumps that form on the tendon. These bumps are fatty deposits that develop within the Achilles tendon. They are often the result of high cholesterol.
They will feel firm and rubbery when you touch them but do not cause pain or symptoms. These bumps can thicken or enlarge the tendon.
Treatment can involve addressing high cholesterol. We may need to remove the xanthomas if they affect range of motion or function. The bumps can also become inflamed or rupture in rare cases.
Achilles Problems: What are the treatment options?
We provide a range of treatment options for Achilles pain, tendonitis, and other concerns. The first step is to evaluate the area with digital diagnostics and a physical exam. Our podiatrist will identify the cause of your pain, swelling, or other symptoms. Then we will recommend the right care and lifestyle habit changes that could prevent future re-injury and protect the Achilles during recovery.
- Rest, ice, and pain medication: Some patients benefit from gentle treatment for a minor injury. We may recommend over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication. Rest and ice compression can also help the tendon recover.
- Custom orthotics: We recommend this treatment for chronic Achilles pain or for patients with overuse injuries. A custom orthotic will properly position and support the foot. It can help to stabilize the tendon and prevent a recurrence.
- Physical therapy: We recommend physical therapy to strengthen the tendon. Gentle therapy can also improve mobility.
- Walking boot: A boot can immobilize the area. It can help while the Achilles tendon recovers from a more serious tear or severe or persistent tendonitis.
- Surgery: You may need surgery if you have a full tear or rupture. Foot surgery can reattach the tendon. You can also use a boot and physical therapy after your surgery to strengthen the tendon.
Achilles Tendon Lengthening
This is a surgery that will make the Achilles tendon longer. We recommend this treatment for people who have tight or short tendons. This will lead to limitations in the ankle’s range of motion. It can also cause a condition called equinus deformity where the foot points downward.
Achilles Tendon Injuries
Achilles tendon injuries can vary from mild to severe. The severity of symptoms can vary based on the extent of the strain or injury. No matter the extent of your injury, proper care can prevent long-term issues.
Treatment for Achilles Problems FAQs
To learn more about Achilles problems and their treatments, please read through our frequently asked questions. If you still have more questions or concerns, please call Newtown Foot and Ankle Specialists in Bucks County today.
What are the symptoms of Achilles heel problems?
If a patient feels pain in and above their heel, it may be a sign of Achilles heel problems. The pain may get worse over time and swell and become extremely painful to move. The main fear with Achilles problems is that your tendon may tear. In this case, you will likely hear a snap and your ankle will be extremely swollen.
What can be done to protect athletes’ Achilles tendons?
The best way to protect your Achilles tendon is to know and understand your limitations with any physical activity. Most Achilles injuries occur because of repeated pressure and muscle strain. We recommend that you wear protective ankle shoes to prevent injuries and muscle strains. Stretch before physical exercise to warm up your muscles can also help prevent injury.
Is surgery the only way to repair an Achilles tendon?
Our doctor will present you with multiple options when you have torn your Achilles tendon. The severity of the injury may affect the number of options you have. You may need surgery if your Achilles ruptures.
Nonsurgical treatments may include:
- Ice
- Immobilization
- Pain killers
- Physical therapy
- Custom orthotics
You can avoid surgery if you keep pressure off your foot and use the right treatment.
Can I massage a damaged Achilles tendon?
Yes. If you have a torn Achilles tendon, a pressure massage will help increase blood flow to the area. Increased blood flow can help the tendon heal. A pressure massage helps as you begin to treat your torn tendon because it can reduce pain and inflammation in the area. We recommend massages with physical therapy and gentle exercises to address Achilles pain.
What does a strained Achilles tendon feel like?
A strained Achilles tendon feels like extreme pain above the heel. It can worsen when you move or stretch the ankle. The ankle may also be swollen and tender to touch. A strained Achilles tendon will worsen during activity and may feel better when at rest. It can also cause weakness in the affected leg.
What happens if Achilles tendonitis goes untreated?
A podiatrist should treat persistent pain or discomfort in the Achilles tendon area. If you suffer from tendonitis, you need to get a diagnosis and a proper treatment plan as soon as possible.
You can tear or rupture the tendon. This is a serious and painful injury that needs surgery and long-term rehabilitation. You could also suffer from functional limitations and tendon degeneration if left untreated.
How can I prevent Achilles tendon injuries?
Preventing Achilles tendon injuries is essential if you are active in sports or exercise. Before any workout or sports activity, take time to warm up your muscles. This can include light jogging or dynamic stretches to prepare your body for more intense exercise.
Stretching your calf muscles and Achilles tendon can help improve flexibility. Make sure to do calf stretches before and after you exercise. Stretches will keep the tendon flexible and reduce the risk of injury.
Start slowly when you start a new exercise routine or if you want to increase the intensity of your workouts. Give your body time to adjust to new activities so you don’t overwork your Achilles tendon. Choose shoes that fit well and support your feet. If you run or play sports, look for shoes designed for those activities. Don’t wear worn-out shoes because they can increase your risk of injury.
What should I do if I feel pain again after Achilles tendon treatment?
You want to take the right steps if you feel pain again after treatment for your Achilles tendon. First, stop any activities that make the pain worse. Give your foot a break. Try to keep weight off the affected foot as much as possible.
You can apply ice to help reduce pain and swelling. Use an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Ice your Achilles tendon for about 15 to 20 minutes for several times a day. Also keep your foot elevated when you rest. You can prop your foot up on a pillow or cushion to reduce swelling.
We may also recommend that you take over-the-counter pain relievers. Follow the instructions on the label for proper dosages.
Talk to your doctor or physical therapist if the pain continues or gets worse. Our doctors can assess your foot and may recommend new treatment or adjust your current plan.
Schedule an Appointment and Evaluation Today
We’re your trusted foot and ankle specialists in Newtown and Bucks County. Schedule an appointment and discuss your foot and ankle needs with our trusted doctors. You can also call our office at 215.234.3772 today.