A Step By Step Guide to Tendonitis
Do you have a persistent ache in your heel, sharp pain along your ankle, and stiffness on top of your foot? Then you might have tendonitis, an inflammation of a tendon that can get worse over time. Read on for a Step By Step Family Foot Care guide to the condition, its causes, and why identification is key.
What Exactly Is Tendonitis? (And What’s a Tendon?)
Tendons are strong, flexible, cord-like tissues connecting muscles to bones, essential for movement. Tendonitis occurs when a tendon becomes inflamed or irritated, usually due to overuse, repetitive strain, or a sudden injury.
This commonly affects the:
- Achilles tendon (back of the heel)
- Posterior tibial tendon (inside of the ankle/arch)
- Peroneal tendons (outside of the ankle)
- Extensor/flexor tendons (top/bottom of the foot)
Why Does Tendonitis Develop?
Tendonitis usually has underlying causes, not just bad luck:
- Overuse or Repetitive Strain: This is the most common culprit. Repetitive movements like running, jumping, or prolonged standing can overload tendons.
- Sudden Increase in Activity: Jumping into a new exercise routine too quickly or significantly increasing training intensity without proper conditioning.
- Improper Footwear: Shoes lacking adequate support, cushioning, or that are worn out contribute to abnormal tendon stress.
- Foot Structure & Biomechanics: Certain foot types, like flat feet or very high arches, can alter your gait and place uneven stress on specific tendons.
- Age: Tendons naturally become less flexible and more susceptible to injury as we age. Direct injury can also initiate inflammation.
Spotting the Signs
How do you know if that nagging pain is tendonitis? Look for these symptoms:
- Pain: Often a dull ache, especially during or after activity, but can be sharp. Usually localized to the affected tendon.
- Tenderness: The area over the inflamed tendon will likely be tender to the touch.
- Stiffness: Particularly in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Mild Swelling or Warmth: May be present around the affected tendon due to inflammation.
Why Early Identification is Key (Don’t “Push Through” It!)
Ignoring tendonitis is a mistake. It can lead to:
- Chronic Tendonitis (Tendinosis): Inflammation becomes chronic, leading to tendon degeneration and microscopic tears, often harder to treat.
- Tendon Tears or Rupture: A weakened tendon is more prone to tearing.
- Altered Gait & Compensatory Pain: Walking differently to avoid pain can cause problems in your knees, hips, or back.
Do the symptoms and complications above sound painfully familiar? Get in touch with us! An accurate diagnosis is crucial to rule out other conditions and ensure you get on the path to recovery.
Step By Step Family Foot Care is here to assist you with your podiatry needs! To make an appointment with Dr. Debra Manheim, call us at (973) 917-3785 or visit our site to schedule an appointment. The staff at our Parsippany office is ready to help.
