Achilles Tendon Injuries Specialist

Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC

Podiatry located in Mesquite, TX, Wylie, TX, Forney, TX & Kaufman, TX

If you experience aching pains, swelling, or stiffness down the back of your lower leg, you may have an Achilles tendon injury. But with the help of the skilled podiatry team at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC, with locations in Mesquite, Wylie, Forney, and Kaufman, Texas, you can undergo highly effective pain-relieving treatments. Before your Achilles tendon injury worsens, book an evaluation through the website. You can also call any office to schedule an Achilles tendon exam by phone.

Achilles Tendon Injuries Q & A

What are Achilles tendon injuries?

Your Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body and is strong enough to withstand 1,000 pounds of pressure (or more). Responsible for connecting your calf muscles to your lower leg bones and heels, your Achilles tendon is prone to injury.

Achilles tendon injuries can occur because of poor warm-ups or a sudden increase in your physical activity. These issues are common with weekend warriors, for instance.

Other factors that can lead to Achilles tendon injuries, such as inflammation (Achilles tendinitis), include:

Stair climbing or hill running
Tendency towards overpronation
Improper footwear or worn shoes
Hard, sudden contraction of the calf muscles

Achilles tendon injuries can also occur because of overuse and repetitive motions, issues that regularly affect distance runners.

When should I see a podiatrist for Achilles tendon injuries?

Achilles tendon injuries tend to worsen with activity, so it’s important to come into Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists as soon as discomfort begins. The dedicated podiatry team recommends Achilles tendon examinations if you’re experiencing:

Stiffness, which usually resolves as your tendon warms up
Morning tenderness about half an inch above your heel
Sluggishness in your leg
Mild to severe swelling
Tendon thickening

If you felt or heard a sudden “pop” during an injury, prompt medical attention is critical. This may be a warning sign that you ruptured your Achilles tendon.

How does a podiatrist treat Achilles tendon injuries?

Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists provides on-site digital X-rays and ultrasound imaging to better help your podiatrist with the diagnostic process. After your podiatrist diagnoses you, they counsel you about all available treatments, which may include a combination of the following therapies:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
Immobilization with a brace, wrap, or splint
Corrective shoe inserts (custom orthotics)
Stretching and strengthening exercises
For severe Achilles tendon injuries, your dedicated podiatrist at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists could recommend surgery.

Using modern surgical procedures, your podiatrist can lengthen your calf muscles, remove bone spurs, graft tissues, or make any other necessary repairs to restore your full tendon function.

Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC can help you with minor to complex Achilles tendon injuries. Get started on treatment by booking an evaluation online or over the phone today

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