As with other conditions that end in "-itis", Achilles tendonitis refers to the often painful inflammation of the Achilles tendon. The tendon plays an important role in helping you perform activities such as walking, running, jumping, and even simply standing. If you are struggling with Achilles tendinitis you may be able to manage early symptoms at home, but if problems persist or are simply concerned you should consult with Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel with Emerald Coast Podiatry in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL.
Causes and Symptoms
Overuse is the most common cause of Achilles tendinitis, often due to excessive exercise, changing up your workout routine too suddenly, or using improper footwear.
Achilles tendonitis can manifest as mild pain soon after workouts, but symptoms can become worse over time resulting in redness, inflammation, tenderness, stiffness, and more intense pain at the site.
Symptoms can also be felt in the morning soon after waking, though they can diminish as you warm up, but they'll typically return.
Stretching before and after workouts can help prevent the condition from worsening and even prevent it. But if the symptoms are already interrupting your everyday activities it may be time to seek help.
Treatment for Achilles Tendinitis in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL
To treat early signs of Achilles tendonitis you can use ice and compression to lower inflammation, making sure not to apply ice directly to the skin and repeating the process about every 20 minutes.
Your doctor will often suggest that you reduce the intensity of your exercise, or pause it all together for a time, along with at-home care. But may also prescribe custom orthotics for added support, can recommend physical therapy, and may suggest nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Only if no other treatments prove useful or if your condition worsens will your doctor suggest you undergo surgery to treat and repair the Achilles tendon.
For help in treating your Achilles tendinitis in Fort Walton Beach and Crestview, FL you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel of Emerald Coast Podiatry by dialing 850-862-4119 for the Fort Walton Beach, FL, office and 850-682-6522 for Crestview, FL.