What causes tendinitis?

You have tendons all over your body that connect muscles to bones. These tendons are designed to stretch and absorb tremendous force — especially in your lower extremities. 

Over time, tendons can become inflamed, a condition known as tendinitis. Common causes and risk factors of tendinitis include:

• Sudden increase in activity (common with weekend warriors)
• Arthritic conditions, especially rheumatoid arthritis
• Overuse, as with sports or running
• Chronic diseases, like diabetes
• Older age

While tendinitis can occur in any of the tendons in your feet, ankles, or lower leg, the most common issue is with your Achilles tendon. This is the tendon that runs down the back of your lower leg and connects your leg and calf muscles to the heel of your foot. If this tendon is sore and inflamed, you may have Achilles tendinitis.

How do I know if I have tendinitis?

Tendinitis symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may be chronic, or they might only occur during activities or exercise. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms in your lower extremities, you may have tendinitis:  

• Pain that worsens with movement
• Grinding or grating sensations
• Inflammation or tenderness
• Redness or bruising 
• Dull to severe pain

In severe cases, especially with Achilles tendon injuries, you may experience difficulty flexing or pointing your foot. If you have a tendon rupture, you probably won’t be able to bear weight on your foot. 

In any case, whether your symptoms are minor or severe, the caring team at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists can help.

What is the treatment for tendinitis?

After examining your feet and ankles, performing diagnostic testing, or gathering X-ray or ultrasound images, your dedicated podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists counsels you about your specific diagnosis. They explain all of your possible tendinitis treatment options, which may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
• Immobilization, like with a walking boot
• Daily stretching exercises 
• Supportive orthotic inserts
• Changes in footwear
• Physical therapy 

For more severe tendon injuries, such as an Achilles tendon rupture, your podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists could recommend surgery to make any essential repairs to help you get back to 100%. 

Schedule your tendinitis evaluation at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists today. Click on the online scheduler or call any location to book your appointment.