Achilles Tendinitis
The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the heel and connects the muscles at the back of the leg to the bone of the heel. Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury that is extremely common in runners who suddenly increase their mileage or speed without taking the time to condition themselves into it. Achilles tendinitis can also cause pain for “weekend warrior” types, who play intense sports only occasionally.
Most mild cases of Achilles tendinitis will go away over time with rest and conservative care like ice, heat, and over the counter pain medications. However, serious cases of Achilles tendinitis may cause a tear or rupture of the tendon, which will generally require surgery to repair. At Specialty Surgical Center in Sparta, New Jersey, the orthopedic team performs procedures to surgically repair tendons that are too damaged for conservative care.
Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include persistent pain in the back of the leg in the calf or heel area that does not improve with time. Pain generally becomes more severe after longer runs, sprints, or stair climbing exercise. Pain may also be worse upon waking and improve as you go about your day. A torn or ruptured Achilles tendon will cause severe pain in the back of the leg, and it may become difficult to walk or stand upright.
Surgery to repair the Achilles tendon is usually done on an outpatient basis, and patients are advised to use crutches, a wheelchair, or a knee scooter to get around as the surgical site heals. Patients are usually allowed to bear their full weight at six weeks, and can usually return to athletic activity within 6 months.
For more information about Achilles tendon injuries or Achilles tendon repair at Specialty Surgical Center, call 973-940-3166
Specialty Surgical Center is located in Sparta, New Jersey and our staff consists of board certified surgeons and anesthesiologists performing procedures in Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Spinal Care, Podiatry, Urology, Pain Management, ENT, Hand Surgery, Lithotripsy, Brachytherapy, GYN and Laser Surgery.
For more information about Specialty Surgical Center, call 973-940-3166 or visit our Contact Page.
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