Definition
The Achilles’ tendon attaches the largest muscle in the back of your leg, the gastrocnemius, to the back of your heel bone. This tendon can become painful and inflamed due to injury, tightness, the way you walk, or chronic overuse.
Signs and Symptoms
Pain and swelling in the back of the heel or ankle are common. Pain is often present when walking, exercising, or after resting. X-rays may show a bone spur on the back of the heel bone and is a sign of long term tension on the bone by the Achilles’ tendon. MRI may show thickening or tearing of the tendon.
Treatment
Treatment centers on removing the tension on the tendon and relieving the pain and inflammation. This can be done with:
- Immobilization
- Stretching Exercises
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications
- Physical therapy
- Cortisone Injections
- Ankle Braces
- High Power Laser Therapy (HPLT)
- Custom Molded Orthotics
- AmnioFix
If the pain persists surgery to elongate the Achilles’ tendon or partially detach the Achilles’ tendon and remove the spur may be necessary.
Here is a testimonial from one of our Achilles Tendon patients:
