The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to your heel and is the largest tendon in your body. It is the muscle you use to walk, jump, run, and stand on your toes. Achilles tendonitis happens when the tendon is stressed, irritated, and becomes inflamed. It can occur from overuse and general degeneration. District Foot & Ankle can provide Achillies tendonitis treatment that can help.
Noninsertional Achilles Tendinitis
There are two different kinds of tendonitis, and in noninsertional tiny tears in the middle of the tendon develop from degeneration. They swell and then thicken. This is a problem more often associated with active, younger people.
Insertional Achilles Tendinitis
This type impacts the lower portion of the heel. This is where the tendon inserts into the heel bone. In both types, you can expect calcification of the damaged tendon fibers. With insertional Achilles tendonitis, it can cause bone spurs. This can impact anyone anytime and often comes from long-term overuse, such as seen in runners.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
If you think you are experiencing Achilles tendonitis, here are some of the symptoms:
- Bone spurs
- Stiffness or pain in the Achilles tendon in the morning
- Pain after exercising, often severe
- Pain that worsens after activity along the tendon or heel
- Swelling that gets worse throughout the day, with activity
For professional Achilles tendonitis treatment in Alexandria, VA, contact District Foot & Ankle.