Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy can be an inflammation of the peritenon around the Achilles tendon or an area of tendinosis within the Achilles tendon. It is a common cause of posterior leg and ankle pain in athletes and active individuals. Typically it causes pain along the Achilles tendon with activity, but it can start to affect activities of daily living, including walking.
Pain is typically felt at the muscle-tendon junction, along the Achiiles tendon (white arrow), or at the insertion of the tendon into the calcaneus (heel bone).
Typically Achilles tendinopathy is treated without surgery, at least initially. Physical therapy, stretching, icing the area, rest or avoid aggravating activities, and even wearing a walking boot to immobilize the tendon can all be helpful. Cortisone shots are typically avoided to decrease the chance of an Achilles tendon rupture. Very rarely surgery to excise or debride the diseased portion of tendon and primarily repair the tendon can be attempted, although the success is variable. Return to sports depends on resolution of the symptoms. It can be a nagging problem with a protracted course, so return to sports can be slow.
If you have specific questions about Achilles tendinopathy, please Ask Dr. Geier directly or Schedule an Appointment.
Other Leg, Ankle & Foot InjuriesAchilles Tendinopathy
Achilles Tendon Ruptures
Ankle Impingement
Ankle Fractures
Ankle Sprains
Calcaneus Stress Fractures
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Fifth Metatarsal Fracture (Jones fracture)
Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) Tendinitis
Hallux Rigidus
Lateral Ankle Instability
Lisfranc Injuries
Metatarsal Stress Fracture
Navicular Stress Fracture
Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Peroneal Tendon Subluxation
Plantar Fasciitis
Sever’s Disease
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Syndesmosis Injuries (“High Ankle Sprains”)
Tibia Fracture
Tibial Stress Fracture
Turf Toe
C. David Geier Jr., M.D.
