You have dozens of fibrous tendons all over your body that connect muscles to bones. Because injury and overuse can lead to tendon inflammation (tendonitis), the expert podiatrists at United Foot & Ankle provide treatments to relieve pain and promote healing. Book your tendonitis evaluation at any of the practice locations in East Brunswick, Keyport, Somerset, Perth Amboy, or Bayonne, New Jersey, today. You can conveniently schedule online or over the phone with the location nearest you.

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What causes tendonitis?

Tendonitis of your foot and ankle can occur in any of your lower extremity tendons, but in most cases, it’s your Achilles tendon that runs down the back of your leg that gets inflamed. Though older age and having a history of tendonitis can increase your risk, tendonitis is also linked to:

  • Overuse, as with distance running
  • Training in worn, unsupportive shoes
  • Having flat arches, flat feet, or tight calf muscles
  • Participating in sports where you jump or push from your toes

Your risk of tendonitis further increases if you have high blood pressure, psoriasis, or other chronic medical condition.

How do I know if I have tendonitis?

Tendonitis generally leads to mild aching pains, especially during or after periods of intense activity. The podiatrists at United Foot & Ankle also find that tendonitis — depending on which tendon is inflamed — can cause:

  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Swelling and tightness
  • Tenderness with pressure

Though these tendonitis symptoms can help your podiatrist diagnose tendonitis, they also need to perform a physical examination to confirm tendonitis and rule out related conditions (like stress fractures). United Foot & Ankle has on-site X-ray and technology available if your podiatrist needs to gather images

What is the treatment for tendonitis?

Treating tendonitis involves stabilizing the area to help inflamed tissues heal. Your podiatrist at United Foot & Ankle may get you fitted for a brace or walking boot to wear for several weeks. Your tendonitis treatment plan may also include:

  • Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy)
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Custom orthotic inserts
  • Physical therapy
  • Regular icing or heat

It takes time and patience when it comes to recovering from tendonitis. But rest assured, the team at United Foot & Ankle works diligently to help you get back to your sport, exercise, or daily activities without having to worry about discomfort.

Though uncommon, severe tendonitis issues, such as tendon tears or ruptures, may require surgery. United Foot & Ankle specializes in modern minimally invasive procedures, so you can receive the quality care you need with a podiatrist you already know and trust.

Click on the online scheduling tool to book your tendinitis evaluation at United Foot & Ankle today. You can also call any clinic to speak with a team member to schedule.