Three Tips for Foot Health from Physicians for Achilles Tendonitis in Philadelphia

Foot health is important because it bears the force of your weight while you exercise. Over the years, the natural wear and tear of daily use can affect your Achilles tendon in particular—the muscle connecting the back of your calf to your heel bone. Repetitive overuse, underuse, or sudden exertion, combined with tight calf muscles can cause Achilles pain. Heel bone spurs can also contribute to tendon stress. Although, foot and tendon stress is common, pain is unnatural and should be addressed. Physicians for Achilles tendonitis in Philadelphia recommend that you attentively observe your tendon condition, practice daily stretches, and seek help if pain persists.

Tip One: Be Vigilant about the Condition of your Achilles Tendon

Philadelphia physicians encourage you to remain alert about its normal appearance and function, and at what point any new discomfort emerges. To do this, you should track swelling and pain, noting when regular activity or exercise is impeded. Aggravated swelling that worsens throughout the day is a typical symptom. If activity prompts increasing pain at the point of the heel, Achilles pain is the source. Severe pain the day after exercise where the heel bone meets the tendon is another sign. For Achilles tendonitis, stiffness in the morning is common. A thickening change in heel appearance will be apparent, as well as a possible bone spur. The information about your Achilles pain tendonitis will contextualize your situation for your physician to help him or her recommended treatment and next steps.

Tip Two: It’s Never Too Late to Incorporate Stretching into your Daily Routine

A regime of daily stretching should include calf stretches and heel drops. Physicians for Achilles tendonitis in Philadelphia advise daily stretching so that the tendon will been strengthened. Maintaining elasticity is another outcome of stretching for warm-ups. You should rest, ice and immobilize the swollen tendon as necessary. Orthotic shoes can also help prevent injuries. Timing is crucial. It is better to start your recovery now than to let the tendonitis injury persist and possibly worsen.

Tip Three: Seek a Diagnosis from Physicians for Achilles Tendonitis in Philadelphia

Your visit to a local Philadelphia Rothman Orthopaedic Institute location will empower you to actively pursue healing. A nonsurgical treatment plan will be implemented for six months before other surgical options may be considered. Our physicians at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute have the clinical and educational expertise to offer you exceptional and personalized care from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Rothman Orthopaedic Institute please call 1-800-321-9999.