The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and is fairly strong. It also can commonly get overused and end up in an injury. This injury is known as Achilles tendonitis. Any athlete will likely deal with this issue at some point in their life and should understand what it is and how it can be treated. Your podiatrists at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa/Caldwell, and Meridian, ID, can answer questions about Achilles tendinitis and how you can start feeling better as soon as possible.
A: There are many activities that could cause Achilles tendonitis. It’s often caused by overuse and starts with a mild pain that gradually worsens. Achilles tendonitis can be caused by hill or stair climbing, a lack of stretching or warming up, trauma, improper footwear, or rapidly increasing your speed while running or walking.
A: Often, you might experience pain along the tending while running or walking, mild or severe swelling in the leg, and a stiffness that starts to fade as you warm up. You might also have tenderness in the morning in your calf where the Achilles tendon is.
A: Our podiatrist in Boise, Nampa/Caldwell, and Meridian, ID, can help find the best treatment for your Achilles tendonitis. This could be restricting movement in the calf and taking anti-inflammatory medication. Orthotics can help support your feet and relieve extra tension and pressure placed on the tendon. One of the most important things that you can do is rest the leg and switch to exercises that don’t put pressure on your feet. You should also stretch and warm up before each exercise.
Find out more about Achilles tendonitis! Contact your podiatrists at Idaho Foot & Ankle Associates in Boise, Nampa/Caldwell, and Meridian, ID, to ask further questions about Achilles tendonitis. Call for more information today at (208) 327-0627 for the office in Boise, ID, (208) 463-1660 for the office in Nampa/Caldwell, ID, and (208) 888-9876 for the office in Meridian, ID.