Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis

Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis

Find out how to manage Achilles tendonitis pain.

Your feet take on a lot of stress every day. If you are someone who pounds the pavement you may be more likely to find yourself dealing with foot pain due to repeated stress. Achilles tendonitis is a common cause of heel pain in Alexandria, and Sterling, VA. If you are dealing with heel pain that you think could be due to Achilles tendonitis, your podiatrists, Dr. Richard Lee and Dr. Steven Lin of Alexandria Family Podiatry, are here to provide treatment and care.

Get Some Rest

As much as you might hate to do it, you need to avoid physical activities or putting added strain on the affected heel until it has fully healed. Now is the time to give your body a break, which will help it heal faster so you can get back to doing what you love.

Take Painkillers

Anyone who has dealt with Achilles tendonitis knows how painful it can be. You don't have to live with heel pain in Alexandria, and Sterling, VA. That’s what over-the-counter pain relievers are for. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories are the ideal pain reliever to take, as they will target both pain and swelling. They might not fix the problem, but they can certainly make it more bearable. If painkillers aren’t touching the pain or inflammation, talk to your podiatrists about steroid injections.

Stretch and Strengthen the Calf Muscles

While you might have to say bye (for now) to your CrossFit class, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t exercises that could be both therapeutic and beneficial to the tendon. Toe raises, runner’s stretch and heel drops are all great ways to help strengthen the calf muscle so it can take on more force, which can reduce your risk for Achilles tendonitis in the future while also alleviating stiffness and pain.

Wear Heel Pads

From heel pads to custom orthotics, there are several ways to upgrade your current footwear’s support and cushioning. This can help take some of the pressure off the heel while also making it easier to get around the house.

Alexandria Family Podiatry is ready to help you get your heel pain under control in Alexandria, and Sterling, VA. To schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lee and Dr. Lin, call (703) 823-2357 today.