Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendinitis is among the most common activity-related injuries, affecting up to 10% of runners. At Tri-State Top Foot Specialist in White Plains and Nyack, New York, experienced podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Hasan Masood, DPM, specializes in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendinitis with a conservative and noninvasive approach. A series of shockwave therapy treatments can reduce inflammation and help you return to your favorite activities. Call Tri-State Top Foot Specialist today to schedule treatment for Achilles tendinitis, or book your appointment online.

My heel hurts. Is it Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is one of the leading causes of persistent heel pain. 

Your Achilles tendon secures your heel bone to your calf muscle. It helps you perform routine movements, like walking, running, and climbing stairs.

Though tough and flexible, the Achilles tendon is susceptible to injury and general wear-and-tear, resulting in pain, stiffness, and a loss of mobility. 

Does Achilles tendinitis present symptoms?

Achilles tendinitis symptoms include:

• Heel pain
• Ankle pain
• Leg weakness
• Swelling at the back of your heel

Achilles tendinitis pain is most noticeable after physical activity, like walking, working out, or playing sports. 

Should I see a podiatrist about Achilles tendinitis?

Make an appointment at Tri-State Top Foot Specialist if you have heel pain that lasts more than a few weeks. That’s particularly true if the pain doesn’t improve with at-home treatments, like ice, over-the-counter pain medication, and rest.

Dr. Masood can determine the severity of your injury and prevent it from worsening.

How is Achilles tendinitis diagnosed?

Dr. Masood reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a podiatry exam.

During the exam, Dr. Masood looks at your heel and the back of your ankle, checking for redness, swelling, and inflammation. He gently presses on your heel to identify sensitive areas and feels for bone spurs or other abnormalities. 

An exam is often enough for a diagnosis. But if Dr. Masood suspects an underlying problem, like a dislocated joint or a fracture, he orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, an MRI, or an ultrasound.

How does a podiatrist treat Achilles tendinitis?

At Tri-State Top Foot Specialist, Dr. Masood treats Achilles tendinitis using a conservative, noninvasive approach. He might recommend:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol)
• Shoes that provide support
• Heel lifts or custom orthotics
• A night splint to stretch the Achilles tendon during sleep
• Walking boot or a walking cast
• Physical therapy
• At-home exercises, like calf stretches

If your symptoms continue or worsen, Dr. Masood prescribes shockwave therapy. Shockwave therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and encourage your body’s healing process.

Does Achilles tendinitis require surgery?

Most cases of Achilles tendinitis improve with conservative and noninvasive treatments. Surgery may be necessary if your symptoms last for six months or longer and keep you from work or exercise.

Call Tri-State Top Foot Specialist today to schedule an Achilles tendinitis appointment, or book your visit online.