The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body. Its purpose is to connect the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. This tendon is responsible for facilitating all types of movement, like walking and running. Since it provides an enormous amount of mobility to an individual, there are some important things patients should know about Achilles tendonitis in Louisiana.
The most common injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon are tendon ruptures and Achilles tendinitis. Achilles tendinitis is the milder of the two injuries and can be recognized by inflammation, dull-to-severe pain, an increased flow of blood to the tendon, thickening of the tendon, and slower movement time. Tendinitis can be treated via several methods and is often diagnosed by an MRI.
4 Facts From Surgeons For Achilles Pain Tendonitis in Louisiana
Stretching is your best protection against Achilles tendon injuries. Without proper stretching, the Achilles can become very tight, so that subsequent activities may result in pain, tendonitis, or even rupturing of the tendon. Even four or five minutes of stretching twice a day can help to keep this tendon healthy, and it’s especially important if you participate in intermittent, recreational athletic activities.
Most Achilles tendonitis in Louisiana can be treated non-operative.
Although the best way to treat Achilles tendonitis is through preventive stretching, if tendonitis does develop, there are a number of non-operative treatment options which can be effective. These include:
- Rest allows the swelling to subside after the onset of symptoms;
- Immobilization through a walking cast or boot can help more severe situations;
- Ice to reduce swelling, stimulate blood flow, and relieve pain;
- Anti-Inflammatory Medication to reduce pain and swelling;
- Physical Therapy to help patients stretch and regain strength after the tendonitis.
(Talk with a doctor before beginning any of the above treatment methods.)
Untreated tendonitis may lead to a rupture of the tendon. Common symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:
- Pain and swelling in the heel that worsens after physical activity;
- Feeling of tightness in the heel and foot;
- Limited range of motion when flexing the foot.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk with a doctor, rather than trying to endure the pain. Untreated Achilles tendonitis can lead to a series of tears within the tendon, making it susceptible to rupture, which will most likely require more serious treatment options, including casting or surgery.
Experienced surgeons For Achilles pain tendonitis are nearby.
If your Achilles tendonitis does develop into a rupture, or if it recurs several times and causes certain types of damage to the tendon, your doctor may recommend a surgical treatment approach. Fortunately, there are experienced surgeons for Achilles pain tendonitis in Louisiana.
We want you to remember that you are not alone – we are available to help you get back on your feet. For more information regarding the treatment of Achilles tendonitis in Louisiana, call our office today to schedule a consultation.