Tendonitis

What is tendonitis?

Tendonitis refers to an inflamed tendon, which can affect any of the tendons in your foot and ankle but frequently develops in several specific tendons. Inflammation may occur in the extensor tendons that run across the top of your foot where they’re vulnerable to injuries.

The peroneal tendons and posterior tibial tendons are especially susceptible to inflammation due to overuse. Your peroneal tendons run behind your outer ankle and stabilize your foot and ankle, while the posterior tibial tendon supports your arch.

However, Achilles tendonitis is one of the most common types of tendonitis and a frequent cause of foot and ankle pain.

What should I know about Achilles tendonitis?

The Achilles tendon suffers from extensive stress as it lifts your heel with every step you take. You can develop inflammation in the middle portion of the tendon and at the point where it attaches to your heel. In both locations, chronic inflammation gradually leads to tendon degeneration and a potential rupture.

Achilles tendonitis typically develops due to repetitive stress. However, the condition also occurs when you suddenly increase the amount or intensity of your exercise or you have tight calf muscles that pull on the tendon.

What symptoms develop due to tendonitis?

Pain is the primary symptoms of tendonitis. The pain typically worsens with you use the affected tendon. You may also develop swelling or notice thickening in the tendon. When the posterior tibial tendon is affected, the foot’s arch flattens, and your ankle rolls inward. Peroneal tendonitis can cause ankle instability.

How is tendonitis treated?

The first line of tendonitis treatment includes conservative therapies such as rest, immobilization, bracing, orthotics, and physical therapy. When the inflammation leads to a rupture, conservative treatment is still the first choice, but severe cases may need surgical repair.

The doctors at Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers also offer two innovative and highly effective treatments:

Stem cell injections

When adult stem cells are injected at the site of your tendonitis, the stem cells promote healing by triggering the production of new tendon tissues. You may experience an increase in inflammation after stem cell injections, but controlled inflammation is an intended part of the recovery.

Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT)

EPAT is a noninvasive treatment that uses an applicator to send pressure waves through your skin to the inflamed tissues. The waves stimulate metabolism, improve blood circulation, and accelerate healing.

When you develop pain in your ankle or foot, schedule an appointment using the online booking feature or by calling Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers.