What Is Achilles Tendinitis and How Is It Treated

If you’ve been dealing with persistent pain in the back of your heel or lower calf, you could be experiencing Achilles tendinitis—a common overuse injury that affects the largest tendon in your body. At Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center, serving the Alexandria, VA area with two convenient locations, Dr. Angelo Pace offers specialized care to help patients recover and get back on their feet.

Understanding Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and plays a critical role in walking, running, and jumping. When it becomes irritated or inflamed—often due to repetitive stress or sudden increases in physical activity—it can lead to Achilles tendinitis.

Common Symptoms Include:

• Pain and stiffness along the back of the heel
• Swelling or thickening of the tendon
• Discomfort that worsens with activity
• Tenderness, especially in the morning or after rest
• Limited range of motion in the ankle

This condition is especially common in runners, weekend athletes, and people who suddenly increase their level of physical activity.

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

The good news is that most cases of Achilles tendinitis can be managed with non-surgical treatments when addressed early. At Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center, Dr. Pace tailors each treatment plan to your specific needs and lifestyle. Common options include:

Conservative Treatments:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing high-impact activities gives the tendon time to heal.
• Ice Therapy: Helps decrease inflammation and relieve pain.
• Custom Orthotics or Heel Lifts: Reduce strain on the tendon during movement.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Over-the-counter or prescribed as needed to manage pain and swelling.
• Physical Therapy: Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises can improve flexibility and support healing.

Advanced Therapies:

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Stimulates healing in chronic cases.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: Uses your own blood’s healing factors to promote tissue repair.

Surgical Treatment:

When conservative care doesn’t provide relief, or if the tendon is significantly damaged, surgery may be recommended to remove damaged tissue or repair tears. Dr. Pace will walk you through the best options for long-term recovery and function.

Don’t Ignore Heel Pain

Left untreated, Achilles tendinitis can progress to more serious issues like tendon rupture. Early diagnosis and treatment are key. If you’re noticing ongoing heel or lower leg discomfort, don’t wait.

Visit Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center at one of our two Alexandria, VA locations, and let Dr. Angelo Pace help you step toward relief.

Call (703) 971-7100 to schedule your consultation.