Achilles tendonitis is a condition that results from the degeneration of the Achilles tendon and/or the inflammation of its surrounding protective sheath. The longest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon is a rope-like band of tissue that spans from the calf muscles to the heel bone. Although it is designed to withstand the considerable stresses exerted by activities like walking, running, and jumping, repetitive activity and overuse can lead to Achilles tendonitis. The condition usually causes swelling and pain that worsens when the affected ankle is stretched or the foot is flexed. For evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of this and other foot and ankle conditions, patients in Hampton, Williamsburg, Newport News, and the surrounding Virginia areas can consult with the foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Paul Maloof, at Tidewater Orthopaedics.
In the majority of cases, Achilles tendonitis can be treated successfully with non-surgical therapies. Therefore, the foot specialist at Tidewater Orthopaedics in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, typically takes a very conservative approach to treatment. For instance, most of our Achilles tendonitis patients begin with a regimen of one or more of the following options:
If Achilles tendonitis symptoms do not improve after two to three months of conservative treatment, a physical therapy program may be recommended. At Tidewater Orthopaedics, our patients benefit from highly coordinated in-house physical therapy. A key advantage to our approach is that each patient’s physical therapy program is designed through the collaboration of both physicians and physical therapists. Alternatively, in very severe cases, Dr. Paul Maloof, our fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon, might recommend surgery to repair a ruptured tendon or remove excess tissue.
A full recovery from Achilles tendonitis can take several months, and we understand that this can sometimes be frustrating for active individuals. However, it is often possible to remain active and maintain a level of fitness through swimming or other activities that do not aggravate the injury. Your physician at Tidewater Orthopaedics can recommend a customized workout for you.
Contact Tidewater Orthopaedics at (757) 276-3743 if you would like to learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of Achilles tendonitis. We see patients at both of our offices, which are conveniently located in Hampton, VA, and Williamsburg, VA.