An Active Summer Can Aggravate Your Achilles Tendon

At Goldsmith Podiatry, we know that the warmer weather can be the beginning of a more active lifestyle for many of our patients. A sudden burst of intense activity can create problems for your Achilles tendon. This large band of tissue connects the calf muscles in the back of your lower leg with your heel bone. Although this is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, it is also the most commonly injured.

What Hurts the Achilles?

Overextending the tendon by pushing off suddenly or running hills can inflame the tendon. Starting an intensive workout or sports program after a period of inactivity increases your risk of Achilles disorders. The best way to avoid these issues is by beginning a new exercise program slowly and increasing the intensity and length of your workout gradually.

Treatment Options

Achilles tendonitis can be slow to heal. That’s why it’s essential that as soon as you start to feel pain in the tendon that you stop whatever activity is causing it. Contact our Upper West Side office so that our, podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith or Dr. Rosanna Troia can examine your leg and determine if you have an Achilles issue. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the foot doctor will determine the best treatment for you. The aim of treatment is to reduce swelling and pain. One or more of the following options may be used:

• Resting the leg

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

• Cold compression therapy

• Physical therapy and calf stretching

• Heel lifts

• Bracing or a cast to keep the tendon immobilized while it heals

If none of these conservative therapies work, surgery may be needed. If you are experiencing pain in your Achilles tendon or any other part of your lower leg, ankle or foot, make an appointment at our Manhattan office by calling: 212 877 1002.