Achilles Tendonitis Treatment in Maryland
The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone (calcaneus). Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of this tendon, usually caused by repetitive stress. At Foot Centers of Maryland, we emphasize early treatment to keep inflammation from progressing to degeneration (tendinosis) or a rupture, so patients in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD can stay active.
Request an AppointmentCauses of Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is primarily an overuse injury, often rooted in foot mechanics or training errors:
- Sudden Increase in Activity: Rapidly increasing the duration or intensity of running or exercise.
- Tight Calf Muscles: Limited flexibility places constant tension on the tendon.
- Improper Footwear: Worn-out shoes or shoes lacking support.
- Foot Biomechanics: Overpronation and flat feet strain the tendon with every step.
- Bone Spurs: Spurs at the back of the heel can irritate the tendon.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
- Pain and Stiffness: Aching or burning along the back of the heel and lower leg, often worst in the morning.
- Pain with Activity: Pain that worsens with running, walking, or climbing stairs.
- Tenderness: Soreness a few inches above the heel bone.
- Thickening: A swollen or noticeably thicker tendon.
A sudden pop or snap followed by sharp pain and weakness may indicate an Achilles rupture, which needs immediate care.
Insertional vs. Non-Insertional Achilles Tendonitis
Non-insertional tendonitis affects the middle of the tendon and is common in younger, active people. Insertional tendonitis affects the area where the tendon attaches to the heel and can occur in anyone, often alongside bone spurs. Identifying which type you have helps us choose the best treatment. Learn more about other causes of heel pain.
Comprehensive Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis
- Rest and Ice: Modifying activity and icing to reduce swelling.
- Physical Therapy and Stretching: Programs that stretch the calf and strengthen the tendon, including eccentric exercises.
- Heel Lifts and Custom Orthotics: Controlling foot motion and reducing strain.
- Immobilization: A walking boot for more severe flare-ups.
- Advanced Therapies: Shockwave Therapy (EPAT) and regenerative injections for chronic cases.
- Surgery: Tendon repair or debridement when conservative care fails or the tendon ruptures.
Achilles Tendonitis FAQs
What is Achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, usually caused by overuse.
What does Achilles tendonitis feel like?
It often causes aching or burning pain at the back of the heel or lower leg, stiffness in the morning, and pain that worsens with activity.
Can I keep running with Achilles tendonitis?
Running through the pain can worsen the injury and increase the risk of rupture. Your podiatrist can recommend activity modifications.
How long does Achilles tendonitis take to heal?
Mild cases may improve in a few weeks, while chronic tendonitis can take several months of treatment.
Does Shockwave Therapy help Achilles tendonitis?
Yes. Shockwave Therapy is an effective non-invasive option for chronic Achilles tendinopathy that has not responded to other treatments.
What are signs of an Achilles rupture?
A sudden pop or snap, sharp pain, and trouble pushing off or standing on your toes may signal a rupture and need immediate care.
Can orthotics help Achilles pain?
Yes. Orthotics and heel lifts reduce strain on the tendon by improving foot mechanics.
Get Back to Moving Without Achilles Pain
Treat Achilles tendonitis early to prevent serious injury. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office, Mercy Office, Reisterstown Office, Glen Burnie Office, or Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.