Tendinitis Specialist

What causes tendonitis?

Your tendons are thick bands of connective tissue that link muscles to bones. In your lower extremities, it’s most common to have issues with your Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bones, although you can certainly have problems with any of the tendons in your feet and ankles.

If you overuse or stress your tendons, they can quickly become inflamed – or even develop small tears. This is known as tendonitis. You can develop tendonitis due to:

• Having flat feet
• Having arthritis or tight tendons
• Inadequately stretching before exercise

Sometimes, tendonitis develops over time due to a minor injury. For instance, if you slightly overstretch your calf muscles and then go for a run, your tendon might not have a chance to properly heal. This can lead to lingering tendonitis pain and discomfort.

Are there symptoms of tendonitis?

Yes. The most common sign of tendonitis is the pain, although the pain you experience depends on the location of the tendon. You might find that any discomfort you experience gets worse when you move or bear weight on the affected side of your body. Tendonitis can also lead to:

• Swelling
• Instability
• Tenderness to the touch

Since tendonitis can just get worse if you don’t get it treated, or continue to work or exercise with it, get started on treatment at Podiatry Clinic of Jackson right away.

What is the treatment for tendonitis?

As with most types of injuries, to relieve tendonitis pain and swelling, it’s important to rest the area and elevate it when possible. After examining you and looking at X-ray or ultrasound imaging (if needed), your podiatrist at Podiatry Clinic of Jackson can design your treatment plan. Treating tendonitis can include:

• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone injections
• Casting or bracing

To minimize your risk of future tendonitis issues, the team often recommend getting fitted for custom orthotics that are designed to provide support, right where you need it. Although it’s less common, if your tendon isn’t healing or if you have a severe tear, your dedicated podiatrist at Podiatry Clinic of Jackson might need to surgically repair the injury through a minimally invasive procedure.

The specialized team at Podiatry Clinic of Jackson can help treat your tendonitis and work with you to prevent future issues. Book your visit online or over the phone.