The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body. You use this tendon probably everyday. When you're running, jumping, walking, you're using your Achilles tendon. This tendon connects the calf muscles to the foot/heel. This tendon can easily suffer from an injury or overuse.
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Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is a common injury in athletes. It can occur when an athlete does too much, too fast. When an athlete begins a sport after a season of rest. Also, when an athletes begins a new sports or doesn't stretch properly. While it is most common in athletes, many non athletes can begin to suffer from Achilles tendonitis.
When You Need Achilles Tendonitis Surgery
Achilles tendonitis surgery can be used to treat or correct a problem with the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendonitis surgery is used correct problems cannot be corrected with more conservative treatments. Other options include Shock Wave Therapy, orthotics, laser technology, and cryotherapy. Be sure to have your Achilles tendon evaluated thoroughly before having surgery.
What to Expect After Achilles Tendonitis Surgery
After surgery, a cast or walking boot is usually worn for six to 12 weeks. At first, the cast or boot is positioned to keep the foot pointed downward as the tendon heals. The cast or boot is then adjusted gradually to put the foot in a neutral position (not pointing up or down).
Specific gentle exercises (restricted motion) after surgery can shorten the time needed in rehabilitation.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis
You may be able to treat your Achilles tendonitis without surgery! While there are cases in which surgery is required to repair the tendon and prevent further pain and injuries, other cases can be treated without surgery. Our offices offers the latest in conservative treatments so we are able to use surgery as a last resort.
Other treatment options to discuss with your doctor include:
- MLS Laser Therapy- Laser therapy is a painless and effective treatment option that can decrease inflammation and increase the speed of healing.
- Cryotherapy- Cryotherapy acts as a long term anesthetic that uses freezing to decrease pain and allow the body to heal.
- ESWT- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy uses high energy waves to reduce or cure pain such as Achilles tendonitis.
- Physical Therapy- Physical therapy will use specific exercises and stretches to help your body heal by itself.
