Achilles Tendon Pain Specialist

What causes Achilles tendon pain?

The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue connecting the calf muscle to the heel bone. This tendon allows you to walk by helping to raise your heel off the ground. The Achilles tendon is also referred to as a "heel cord.”

If you’re experiencing pain in your heel, then it’s likely Achilles tendonitis or Achilles tendinosis. These two conditions are the two most common sources of pain in your Achilles tendon.

Achilles tendinitis is a short-term inflammation of the Achilles tendon. If you don’t get treatment for Achilles tendinitis, it may progress to Achilles tendinosis. This is a degenerative condition where the tendon loses its healthy structure and may develop microscopic tears. In rare cases, Achilles tendinosis may lead to a ruptured tendon. 

What symptoms accompany Achilles tendon pain?

The symptoms associated with Achilles tendonitis and tendinosis include:

• Aching pain
• Stiffness
• Soreness
• Tenderness

If your tendon begins to degenerate, your tendon may become enlarged and develop nodules where it’s damaged.

How is Achilles tendon pain diagnosed?

The team at Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM, is aggressive about getting to the root cause of your pain. They begin by examining your foot and ankle. 

They evaluate your range of motion and assess the condition of your tendon. They may recommend X-rays or an ultrasound to complete your diagnosis. These services are conveniently available on-site.

What are my treatment options for Achilles tendon pain?

Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM, and their team base your treatment plan on both the degree of damage and the duration of your injury. For acute (sudden) tendon pain, your plan usually involves:

• Immobilization 
• Ice to reduce swelling
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs 
• Orthotics
• Night splints
• Physical therapy

If your tendon doesn’t return to normal with these conservative approaches, your provider may suggest laser therapy to address your condition or surgery to repair the tendon. 

In cases where you need surgery, you can expect your surgeon to recommend the best procedure to repair your tendon. They take into account your age, the extent of the injury, your activity level, and other factors.

If you’re suffering from heel pain, rely on the expertise of the board-certified team at Dan Preece, DPM & Darren Groberg, DPM, to set you on the path to recovery. Call today or schedule a consultation online.