Tendinitis

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is a tendon that becomes inflamed. The thick cords of which connect muscles to bones are called tendons.

One of the most common causes of ankle and foot pain is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon or Achilles tendinitis. Posterior tibial and peroneal tendinitis is other types of common foot and ankle tendinitis.

Typical Causes of Tendinitis

Injury or over-use can result in tendinitis. Improper stretching prior to exertion or incorrect form during physical activity can also contribute to the underlying causes of tendinitis. Those who are particularly prone to tendinitis, often have “flat feet,” tight tendons or arthritis,

What are common symptoms of tendinitis?

The prominent symptom of tendinitis is pain. You will find that pain is most noticeable when you move that part of your body. Tendons can swell be painful to touch.

 Usual Home Care Techniques

You can ease the pain of tendinitis with rest and ice. Keeping off your foot or ankle and applying ice for up to 15 minutes at a time, three to four times a day is often helpful.

Knowing when to seek help

It’s time to see a podiatrist, if the pain doesn’t go away using ice and rest. When pain persists beyond a week is another indicator that you should seek assistance from a Podiatrist. Don’t wait! Tendinitis can become a chronic problem, so seek help sooner rather than later.

What to do

Your podiatrist will explore your medical history and ask you some questions about your pain and general health. Often a complete physical examination of your feet and ankles is performed. X-rays or an MRI might be ordered to see if there is a fracture or torn tendon

The focus with treatment will be on relieving the pain and preventing future injury. Your podiatrist may create orthotics or shoe inserts to effectively immobilize the affected area. Usually a few weeks tendinitis can be resolved. Medication can be of great assistance. Your podiatrist prescribes oral medication.

How to prevent tendonitis

Your doctor will work with you how you can avoid re-developing tendinitis. He or she may also recommend certain stretches or exercises to increase the tendon’s elasticity, which can strengthen the muscles around the tendon.

Gradually increasing your activity level slowly with is helpful— starting an exercise program slowly can be good advice.