If you’re into running or hiking, you may think that you are protected from mobility issues. At least, until you notice a gradual onset of pain and swelling at the back of your heel bone. Initially, the pain may only become noticeable after activity, but it can worsen over time. Why does this pain appear from nowhere? Why now? Active people can also develop joint and tendon issues, primarily due to overuse. Sharp pain and stiffness in the heel area are commonly related to Achilles tendon issues. A tendon that is responsible for giving you mobility and ease of movement.
For specialised care, turn to the experts at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine in New Jersey, serving Middletown, Ridgewood, Westfield, West Orange, Morristown, and surrounding areas, including Belford, Holmdel, Fair Lawn, Midland Park, Clark, Mountainside, Livingston, Millburn, Madison, and Florham Park. Our team focuses on nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments, helping you find relief from your pain and get back to your daily activities without unnecessary interventions.
For appointments, call us or book online at any of our convenient locations in Middletown, Morristown, Ridgewood, Westfield, and West Orange.
What is The Achilles Tendon
Your Achilles tendon is one of the largest and strongest tendons in your body, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It gives you the capacity to walk, run, and jump. When your Achilles tendon is injured, you start to face mobility issues, stiffness, and pain.
Your physician will diagnose the cause of the pain based on a combination of a physical exam, a detailed patient history, and, if needed, diagnostic tests. Different tendon conditions can cause Achilles tendon pain:
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon
- Tendinosis: A non-inflammatory degeneration of the tendon due to long-term overuse.
- Paratenonitis is inflammation of the tissue surrounding the tendon.
- Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy is inflammation and later, degeneration of the tendon fibers that insert on the back of the heel bone.
People with Achilles tendon conditions are susceptible to acute tears. People who have torn their Achilles tendons may not be able to walk or stand and may require surgery.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Issues
Achilles tendon injuries vary in severity, which can cause a wide range of mild to severe symptoms. Common signs of Achilles tendon injuries include:
- Pain, tenderness, or swelling in your Achilles tendon.
- A bump on the back of your heel where your Achilles tendon inserts.
- Pain in your heel when lifting your toes upward, such as during walking or running.
- Pain that’s worse with high-impact movements, including running and jumping.
- Stiffness or tightness in the calf muscles.
- Bruising around the heel or calf in cases of tendon ruptures.
- Achilles tendon injuries can also cause mild to severe disability and may limit your ability to walk, run, or jump without pain.
Achilles Tendon Treatment in New Jersey?
Since Achilles tendon injuries vary widely, the team approaches treatment in multiple ways to reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling while also improving the tendon’s function. Among the Treatment options here at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine we include:
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP).
- Adipose/Fat Therapy.
- TenJet Tenotomy.
- Physical Therapy.
- Bracing or Athletic Taping.
The therapies available are all minimally invasive so you can avoid surgery and recover as quickly as possible without the need for a lengthy recovery period. In some cases, surgery may be recommended; in such cases, the team provides referrals as appropriate.
If you’re experiencing the symptoms of Achilles tendon issues, schedule a visit for Achilles tendon treatment in New Jersey today by calling or booking a visit online at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine.
