Your Achilles tendon attaches your calf muscle to your heel bone. It is responsible for helping you jump, walk, and run.
Often, though, overuse of this tendon can cause painful inflammation known as Achilles tendinitis. In many cases, rest and home treatments can help reduce the swelling and allow you to get on with your normal activities –although in some cases, additional treatment may be required.
While most cases of Achilles tendinitis are related to overuse and excessive exercise –such as running; other causes, such as arthritis, have been linked to tendinitis as well.
Symptoms
The main symptom associated with Achilles tendonitis, is the pain and swelling in the back side of your leg and heel when you walk or run. Other symptoms can include swelling in the back of your heel, tight calf muffles, and a limited range of motion when flexing your foot. In some cases, the skin on your heel may feel warm to the touch.
Treatment
For most case, treating Achilles tendonitis can be done at home with rest and ice. However, if the pain persists you should seek medical attention. In some serious cases, if not treated, Achilles tendonitis can lead to a torn tendon. Your doctor’s treatment may range from additional rest and icing to surgery to help relieve the pressure from your tendon.
Prevention
Prevention is always best. To help lower your risk of Achilles tendonitis you should try to do the following:
- Stretch – It is important you stretch your calf muscles before you begin exercise, sports, or workouts. Stretching makes your Achilles less prone to injury and reduces your chances or stretching or tearing a tendon.
- Begin Slowly – Easing into a new exercise routine or sport is important. You should gradually ease yourself in, remembering to stretch and warm up before each event.
- Proper Footwear – Finally, it is important that you have proper footwear for each activity and ensure that your footwear has the proper cushioning and arch support for your feet. You should also consider replacing shoes if you have had them for an extended period of time.
For foot treatment in Houston, Texas contact Dr. Lamarra of Shepherd Square Podiatry today.