Tendonitis Treatment in Alexandria, VA
Your Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body and can withstand forces of 1,000 pounds or more, yet tendonitis is one of the most common reasons patients visit our office. At Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA , our podiatrists treat Achilles and other foot and ankle tendon injuries with modern, conservative therapies and expert surgical care when needed.
Book OnlineWhat Is Tendonitis?
Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. Tendonitis occurs when a tendon becomes inflamed, irritated, overstretched, or damaged. Any tendon can be affected, but in the foot and ankle, the Achilles tendon, which runs down the back of the lower leg to the heel, is injured most often. Other commonly affected tendons include the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch, and the peroneal tendons on the outside of the ankle.
What Causes Tendonitis?
- Running or jumping regularly
- Overuse and wear and tear
- Sudden increases in training intensity, such as sprinting
- Inadequate stretching before sports or exercise
- Improper or worn-out footwear
- Tight calf muscles
- Flat feet or high arches
Some people are naturally prone to tendon injuries due to weaker tendons and soft tissues. Tendonitis can occur suddenly or develop gradually, and either way, early treatment keeps it from getting worse.
Tendonitis Symptoms
The most common sign of tendonitis is pain in the lower leg, ankle, or foot. You may also notice:
- Pain and stiffness at the back of the heel
- Pain that is worse in the morning or after activity
- Swelling, warmth, or tenderness along the tendon
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty bearing weight on the injured leg
A sudden pop or snap followed by sharp pain may signal a tendon rupture, which requires prompt care.
Tendonitis Treatment
Our team has extensive training in modern, conservative tendonitis therapies. Your treatment plan may include:
- Specialized eccentric stretching exercises
- Physical therapy
- Custom orthotic inserts and heel lifts
- Bracing or a walking boot to rest the tendon
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
- Ultrasound or electrical stimulation therapy
- Cortisone injections, used carefully around tendons
- Regenerative options such as Nano PRP Jelly
If you’re not getting relief or your tendonitis is worsening, surgery may be considered. Tendon surgery may involve lengthening the calf muscles, repairing the tendon, or transferring part of a tendon. Surgery is almost always a last resort, and our surgeons, Dr. Garrett and Dr. Nolte, care for you every step of the way.
Tendonitis is common among active people, so our sports medicine services focus on treatment and prevention. It frequently occurs alongside plantar fasciitis. Learn more about the conditions we treat.
Tendonitis FAQs
What is Achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is inflammation or irritation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, often caused by overuse.
How long does tendonitis take to heal?
Mild cases may improve in a few weeks with rest and treatment, while chronic tendonitis can take several months.
Should I keep running with Achilles tendonitis?
Continuing to run through pain can worsen the injury or lead to a rupture. See a podiatrist for guidance on safe activity.
Does shockwave therapy help tendonitis?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy can stimulate healing in chronic tendonitis, especially when other treatments haven’t helped.
Can orthotics help tendonitis?
Yes. Custom orthotics and heel lifts can reduce strain on the tendon and correct foot mechanics that contribute to injury.
What are signs of an Achilles tendon rupture?
A sudden pop or snap, sharp pain at the back of the ankle, and difficulty walking or rising onto your toes can indicate a rupture.
When is surgery needed for tendonitis?
Surgery is considered when tendonitis doesn’t improve with conservative care or when the tendon is severely damaged or ruptured.
Get Moving Again Without Tendon Pain
Start your tendonitis treatment today. Call (703) 370-2313 or request an appointment online with Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA .
