Toggle navigation
Academy Foot and Ankle
1940 East State Hwy 114 Suite 150Southlake, TX 76092817-424-3668
blog image twitter logo facebook logo

Request an Appointment

  • Home
  • Our Doctors
    • Paul T. Marciano, D.P.M.
    • Gregory J. Amelung, D.P.M.
    • Joel Dacus, D.P.M.
    • Philip Parr, DPM, MS
    • Larissa P. Rolim D.P.M., M.S.
    • Masoud Moradi, DPM, FAAPSM
  • Our Offices
    • Southlake
    • Keller (Fort Worth)
    • Hurst
    • Flower Mound
  • Conditions We Treat
    • Ankle Surgery
      • Ankle Arthroscopy
      • Total Ankle Replacement
      • Chronic Ankle Instability
      • Achilles Tendon Repair
    • Arthritis
      • Arthritis
      • Arthritis Surgery
      • Hallux Limitus/Hallux Rigidus
      • Spurs
      • Freiberg's Disease
      • Gout
      • Charcot Foot
    • Ball of Foot Pain
      • Capsulitis
      • Metatarsalgia
      • Metatarsal Surgery
      • Neuroma
      • Sesamoiditis
    • Bunions/Bunionettes
      • Bunions
      • Hallux Limitus/Hallux Rigidus
      • Tailor's Bunion (Bunionette)
      • Hallux Varus
      • Bunion Surgery
    • Congenital Deformities
      • Clubfoot
      • Dysplasia
      • Enchondroma
      • Gordon Syndrome
      • In-toeing
      • Jackson-Weiss Syndrome
      • Overlapping or Underlapping Toes
      • Pediatric Flatfoot
    • Corns/Calluses
      • Corns
      • Calluses
      • Heel Callus
    • Crossover Toe
    • Diabetic Foot
      • What Is Diabetes?
      • Diabetic Foot Care
      • Peripheral Arterial Disease
      • Osteomyelitis (Bone Infection)
      • Charcot Foot
      • Neuropathy
      • Gangrene
      • Ulcers
      • Diabetic Complications: Amputation Prevention
      • Diabetic Shoes
    • Equinus
    • Flatfeet
      • Flatfeet
      • Pediatric Flatfoot
      • Adult Flatfoot
      • Flatfoot Correction
      • Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
      • Tarsal Coalition
    • Fractures/Trauma
      • What Is A Fracture?
      • Toe Fractures
      • Foot Fractures
      • Ankle Fractures
      • Pediatric Fractures
      • Stress Fractures
    • Hammertoes
      • Hammertoes
      • Mallet Toes
      • Claw Toes
      • Hammertoe Surgery
      • Crossover Toe
    • Heel Pain
      • Plantar Fasciitis or Heel Pain
      • Spurs
      • Plantar Fibromas
      • Haglunds Deformity
      • Pediatric Heel Pain (Sever's Disease)
    • Ingrown Toenails
    • Nail Fungus
      • Black Toenails
      • Common Fungal Problems
      • Nail Fungus
    • Nerve Conditions
      • Neuropathy
      • Alcoholic Neuropathy
      • Neuroma
      • Spasms
      • Ulcers/Wounds
      • Neurolysis
      • Charcot Foot
    • Pediatric Conditions
      • Children's Feet
      • Pediatric Flatfoot
      • Pediatric Heel Pain (Sever's Disease)
      • Tarsal Coalition
      • Pediatric Fractures
      • Kohler's Disease
      • Intoeing
      • Athlete's Foot
      • Smelly Feet and Foot Odor
      • Ingrown Toenails
      • Warts
    • Skin Conditions
      • Allergies
      • Athlete's Foot
      • Blisters
      • Neuropathy
      • Common Fungal Problems
      • Calluses
      • Chilblains
      • Corns
      • Cysts-Ganglions
      • Frostbite
      • Nail Fungus
      • Gangrene
      • Heel Fissures
      • Kaposi's Sarcoma
      • Lesions
      • Psoriasis
      • Smelly Feet/Foot Odor
      • Swelling
      • Ulcers/Wounds
      • Warts
    • Strains/Sprains/Sports Medicine
      • Achilles Tendon Repair
      • Ankle Sprain Injuries
      • Athletic Foot Care
      • Chronic Ankle Instability
      • Osteochondritis of the Ankle
      • Peroneal Tendon Dislocation/Dysfunction
      • R.I.C.E. Protocol
      • Shin Splints
      • Spasms
      • Sports Injuries
        • Baseball Injuries
        • Basketball Injuries
        • Cheer and Dance Injuries
        • Field Hockey Injuries
        • Football Injuries
        • Golf Injuries
        • Lacrosse Injuries
        • Rugby Injuries
        • Running and Track Injuries
        • Soccer Injuries
        • Softball Injuries
        • Tennis Injuries
        • Volleyball Injuries
      • Turf Toe
    • Tendonitis
      • Achilles Tendonitis
        • Xanthomas of the Achilles Tendon
      • Extensor Tendonitis
      • Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
    • Toenail Conditions
      • Ingrown Toenails
      • Nail Fungus
      • Subungal Exotosis
    • Vascular Conditions
      • Peripheral Arterial Disease
      • Acrocyanosis
      • Chilblains
      • Erythromelalgia
      • Ischemia
      • Raynaud's Phenomenon
      • Ulcers/Wounds
      • Venous Stasis and Vericose Veins
    • Warts/Soft Tissue Masses
      • Cysts-Ganglions
      • Warts
  • Patient Education
    • Basic Foot Care Guidelines
    • Bunion Prevention
    • Foot Care For Seniors
    • Foot Fitness
      • Foot Self-Exam
      • Self-Assessment Quiz
    • Nutrition For Your Feet
    • Top Foot Problems
    • Pedicures
    • Shoes
      • Anatomy of a Shoe
      • Athletic Shoe Guidelines
      • Childrens Shoes
      • Corrective and Prescription Shoes
      • Shoes: What To Look For
      • Getting a Proper Fit
      • Diabetic Shoes
      • Men's Shoes
      • Women's Shoes
      • Your Footprint
      • Wear Patterns
    • Women's Feet
      • High Heels
      • Stockings
      • Pregnancy
      • Women Over 65
    • Your Feet @ Work
    • Links
  • Patient Portal
  • New Patient Information
  • Our Services
    • Alcohol Injections
    • BOTOX Injections
    • Digital X-Ray
    • Extracorporeal Shock Wave
    • Lasers
    • Physical Therapy
    • PRP Injections
    • Custom Orthotics
    • Stem Cell Therapy
    • Sports Related Injuries
  • Contact Us
  • Patient Survey
  • Procedure Videos
  • Blog

Achilles Tendinitis

What Is the Achilles' Tendon?

A tendon is a band of tissue that connects a muscle to a bone. The Achilles' tendon runs down the back of the lower leg and connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Also called the “heel cord,” the Achilles' tendon facilitates walking by helping to raise the heel off the ground.

Achilles' Tendonitis and Achilles' Tendonosis


Two common disorders that occur in the heel cord are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendonosis.

Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This inflammation is typically short-lived. Over time, if not resolved, the condition may progress to a degeneration of the tendon (Achilles tendonosis), in which the tendon loses its organized structure and is likely to develop microscopic tears. Sometimes the degeneration involves the site where the Achilles' tendon attaches to the heel bone. In rare cases, chronic degeneration with or without pain may result in rupture of the tendon.

Causes


As “overuse” disorders, Achilles' tendonitis and tendonosis are usually caused by a sudden increase of a repetitive activity involving the Achilles' tendon. Such activity puts too much stress on the tendon too quickly, leading to micro-injury of the tendon fibers. Due to this ongoing stress on the tendon, the body is unable to repair the injured tissue. The structure of the tendon is then altered, resulting in continued pain.

Athletes are at high risk for developing disorders of the Achilles' tendon. Achilles' tendonitis and tendonosis are also common in individuals whose work puts stress on their ankles and feet, such as laborers, as well as in “weekend warriors”—those who are less conditioned and participate in athletics only on weekends or infrequently.

In addition, people with excessive pronation (flattening of the arch) have a tendency to develop Achilles' tendonitis and tendonosis due to the greater demands placed on the tendon when walking. If these individuals wear shoes without adequate stability, their over-pronation could further aggravate the Achilles' tendon.

Symptoms


The symptoms associated with Achilles' tendonitis and tendonosis include:

  • Pain—aching, stiffness, soreness, or tenderness—within the tendon. This may occur anywhere along the tendon’s path, beginning with the tendon’s attachment directly above the heel upward to the region just below the calf muscle. Often pain appears upon arising in the morning or after periods of rest, then improves somewhat with motion but later worsens with increased activity.
  • Tenderness, or sometimes intense pain, when the sides of the tendon are squeezed. There is less tenderness, however, when pressing directly on the back of the tendon.
  • When the disorder progresses to degeneration, the tendon may become enlarged and may develop nodules in the area where the tissue is damaged.

Diagnosis


In diagnosing Achilles' tendonitis or tendonosis, the surgeon will examine the patient’s foot and ankle and evaluate the range of motion and condition of the tendon. The extent of the condition can be further assessed with x-rays or other imaging modalities.

Treatment


Treatment approaches for Achilles' tendonitis or tendonosis are selected on the basis of how long the injury has been present and the degree of damage to the tendon. In the early stage, when there is sudden (acute) inflammation, one or more of the following options may be recommended:

  • Immobilization. Immobilization may involve the use of a cast or removable walking boot to reduce forces through the Achilles' tendon and promote healing.
  • Ice. To reduce swelling due to inflammation, apply a bag of ice over a thin towel to the affected area for 20 minutes of each waking hour. Do not put ice directly against the skin.
  • Oral medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be helpful in reducing the pain and inflammation in the early stage of the condition.
  • Orthotics. For those with over-pronation or gait abnormalities, custom orthotic devices may be prescribed.
  • Night splints. Night splints help to maintain a stretch in the Achilles tendon during sleep.
  • Physical therapy. Physical therapy may include strengthening exercises, soft-tissue massage/mobilization, gait and running re-education, stretching, and ultrasound therapy.

When is Surgery Needed?


If non-surgical approaches fail to restore the tendon to its normal condition, surgery may be necessary. The foot and ankle surgeon will select the best procedure to repair the tendon, based upon the extent of the injury, the patient’s age and activity level, and other factors.

Prevention


To prevent Achilles' tendonitis or tendonosis from recurring after surgical or non-surgical treatment, the foot and ankle surgeon may recommend strengthening and stretching of the calf muscles through daily exercises. Wearing proper shoes for the foot type and activity is also important in preventing recurrence of the condition.

Patient Education

Patient Education Menu
  • What is a Podiatrist?
  • When To Call a Doctor
  • Foot Anatomy
  • Overview of Foot and Ankle Problems
  • Basic Foot Care Guidelines
  • Foot Problems
    • General Statistics
    • Achilles Problems
      • Achilles Tendonitis
      • Peroneal Tendon Dislocation/Dysfunction
      • Xanthomas of the Achilles Tendon
    • Ankle Problems
      • Ankle Sprain
      • Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain
      • Osteochondritis
    • Arch and Ball Problems
      • Capsulitis
      • Flat Feet (over pronation)
      • Metatarsalgia (foot pain in ball)
      • Plantar Fibromas (lumps in the arch of the foot)
      • Sesamoiditis
    • Common Foot Injuries
      • Ankle Sprain Injuries
      • Broken Ankle
      • Fractures
      • Osteochondritis (stiff ankle)
      • Osteochondromas
      • Shin Splints
      • Sports Injuries
    • Deformities
      • Amniotic Band Syndrome
      • Bunions
      • Claw Toe
      • Clubfoot
      • Dysplasia (Epiphysealis Hemimelica)
      • Enchondroma
      • Flat Feet
      • Gordon Syndrome
      • Haglund's Deformity
      • Hallux Limitus (Stiff Big Toe Joint)
      • Hallux Rigidus (Stiff Big Toe)
      • Hallux Varus
      • Hammertoes
      • Jackson-Weiss Syndrome
      • Mallet Toes
      • Metatarsalgia
      • Osteomyelitis (Bone Infections)
      • Overlapping or Underlapping Toes
      • Peroneal Tendon Dislocation/Dysfunction
      • Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
      • Sesamoiditis
      • Spurs
      • Tarsal Coalition
    • Diabetes and Your Feet
    • Diseases of the Foot
      • Arthritis
      • Cancer
      • Charcot Foot
      • Freiberg's Disease
      • Gout
      • Kaposi's Sarcoma (AIDS related)
      • Kohler's Disease
      • Maffucci's Syndrome
      • Ollier's Disease
      • Raynaud's Disease
      • Sever's Disease
      • Sever's Disease
    • Fungus Problems
      • Common Fungal Problems
      • Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
      • Fungal Nails
    • Heel Problems
      • Haglund's Deformity
      • Heel Callus
      • Heel Fissures
      • Plantar Fasciitis (heel spur)
    • Nail Problems
      • Black Toenails
      • Ingrown Toenails
      • Nail Fungus
    • Skin Problems
      • Allergies
      • Athlete's Foot (tinea pedis)
      • Blisters
      • Burning Feet
      • Calluses
      • Corns
      • Cysts
      • Frostbite
      • Fungus
      • Gangrene
      • Lesions
      • Psoriasis
      • Smelly Feet and Foot Odor
      • Swelling
      • Ulcers
      • Warts
    • Toe Problems
      • Bunions
      • Claw Toe
      • Digital Deformity
      • Hallux Limitus (stiff big toe joint)
      • Hallux Rigidis (rigid big toe)
      • Hallux Varus
      • Hammertoes
      • Intoeing
      • Overlapping, Underlapping Toes
      • Subungal Exotosis (bone spur under toenail)
      • Turf Toe
    • Vascular/Nerve Problems
      • Acrocyanosis
      • Alcoholic Neuropathy
      • Chilblains (cold feet)
      • Erythromelalgia
      • Ischemic Foot
      • Neuroma
      • Spasms
      • Venous Stasis
  • Medical Care
    • Diagnostic Procedures
      • Computed Tomography
      • MRI
      • Ultrasound
      • X-Rays
    • Orthotics
    • Pain Management
      • General Information and Tips
      • Pain Management for Specific Conditions
    • Surgical Procedures
      • General Information
      • Achilles Surgery
      • Ankle Surgery
      • Arthritis Surgery
      • Arthroscopy
      • Bunion Surgery
      • Cyst Removal
      • Flatfoot Correction
      • Hammertoe Surgery
      • Heel Surgery
      • Metatarsal Surgery
      • Nerve Surgery (Neuroma)
      • Toe Surgery
    • Therapies
      • Athlete's Foot Treatment
      • Cryotherapy
      • Extracorporeal Shock Wave
      • Iontophoresis
      • Physical Therapy
      • Neurolysis
  • Fitness and Your Feet
    • General Information About Fitness and Your Feet
    • Aerobics
    • Fitness And Your Feet
    • Sports and Your Feet
      • Baseball
      • Basketball
      • Cycling
      • Golf
      • Jogging and Running
      • Tennis
    • Stretching
    • Walking and Your Feet
    • Work Footwear
  • Foot Care
    • Basic Foot Care Guidelines
    • Athletic Foot Care
    • Blisters
    • Children's Feet
    • Corns and Calluses
    • Diabetic Foot Care
    • Foot Care For Seniors
    • Foot Self-Exam
    • Pedicures
    • Self-Assessment Quiz
    • Women's Feet
      • High Heels
      • Stockings?
      • Pregnancy
      • Women Over 65
    • Your Feet at Work
    • Bunion Prevention
    • Burning Feet
    • Fungus Problems
      • Athlete's Foot
      • Common Fungal Problems
      • Fungal Nails
      • Other Tips
      • Prevention
    • Ingrown Nails
    • Osteoporosis
    • Foot Odor and Smelly Feet
      • Prevention
      • Treating Foot Odor
  • Shoes
    • Anatomy of a Shoe
    • Athletic Shoe Guidelines
    • Children's Shoes
    • Corrective and Prescription Shoes
    • What To Look For
    • Getting a Proper Fit
    • Men's Shoes
    • Women's Shoes
    • Your Footprint
    • Wear Patterns
  • Links
    • Government
    • Associations/Groups
    • Online Resources


What is a Podiatric Surgeon?

 

Search Our Site

 

 

Our Locations

817-424-3668 (FOOT)

1940 East State Hwy 114,
Suite 150
Southlake, TX 76092
 New loaction
 6501 Precinct Line Road
 Suite 100,
 North Richland Hills, TX 76182
 
4444 Heritage Trace Pkwy.,
Suite 400
Keller, TX 76244
5810 Long Prairie Rd.,
Suite 400
Flower Mound, TX 75028
 
Office Hours
Monday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed
  • Home
  • Our Doctors
  • Our Offices
  • Our Services
  • New Patient Information
  • Patient Education
  • Contact Us
  • Appointment Request
  • Copyright © MH Sub I, LLC dba Officite
  • Disclaimer
  • Patient Privacy
  • Site Map