An extremely painful foot injury can be classified as an Achilles tendon injury. This generally happens suddenly from increasing speed and frequency too quickly while running. The Achilles tendon is located in the calf, and it connects the heel bone to the calf muscles. There can be a “popping” sound that is heard as the tendon partially or fully tears, and this is known as an Achilles rupture. The common symptoms that many people endure with this type of injury can include pain and stiffness in the back of the heel and difficulty when walking. There is generally reduced mobility and strength, and recovery time for an Achilles tendon injury is approximately three months. Additional reasons why this kind of an injury can occur includes wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or possibly from standing on hard surfaces for the majority of the day. Treatment may begin by keeping the weight off of the foot, and it may help to perform foot strengthening exercises. If you have hurt your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can properly diagnose this ailment, and offer correct treatment options.

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

• Repetitive stress or overuse

• Sudden increase in activity levels

• High impact injury

• Calf muscle tightness or weakness

• Altered foot biomechanics

• Heel bone spurs

• Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

• Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise

• Chronic heel and calf pain

• Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf

• A popping or snapping sensation

• Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon

• Ankle and calf stiffness

• Decreased range of motion in the affected foot

• Swelling

• Difficulty walking 

Treatment

• Resting the affected leg

• Applying ice 

• Compressing the foot and ankle

• Elevating the injured leg 

• Wearing orthotics

• Low impact exercises

• Stretches

• Strengthening exercises 

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

• Cortisone injections

• Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.