What is tendonitis?
Tendons are thick, fibrous cords of connective tissue that attach muscle to bone. Tendonitis happens when one or more tendons become irritated and inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Although tendonitis usually takes two to three months to heal, it can persist much longer without proper treatment. That’s why it’s important to seek prompt medical care at American Surgeons Group as soon as you experience foot pain and inflammation.
What types of tendonitis affect the foot and ankle?
Your feet and ankles contain many tendons, any of which can develop tendonitis. The most common locations for foot tendonitis include:
Achilles tendonitis
This type causes pain that can range from the back of your heel up to the middle of your calf muscles. Pain typically worsens when walking or running.
Posterior tibial tendonitis
This tendon runs along the inside of your foot an ankle, causing pain on the inner side of your foot. Pain occurs when you push off from your foot.
Peroneal tendonitis
This type causes pain on the outer side of your ankle or foot that may worsen while standing or pushing off on your foot.
Extensor tendonitis
This is a less common type of tendonitis that causes pain on the top of your foot. Pain may increase while running.
What causes foot and ankle tendonitis?
Sports injuries and sudden trauma can cause tendonitis, but this condition is more likely to result from wear-and-tear damage from overuse. Runners, athletes, and people who spend a lot of time performing repetitive foot movements are at increased risk of developing foot and ankle tendonitis.
How do you diagnose and treat tendonitis?
Dr. Horak or Dr. Shauger start by performing a physical exam and reviewing your medical history. They may also check the range of motion in your foot and take diagnostic imaging tests, such as an X-ray, MRI or ultrasound.
Then, they create an individualized treatment plan to help you recover as quickly as possible. Depending on your unique needs, tendonitis treatment may include:
- Rest from activities that aggravate your foot or ankle
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Cortisone injections
- Physical Therapy
If you think you may have tendonitis, call American Surgeons Group or book an appointment online.
