Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which is the large fibrous cord that attaches your calf muscles to your heel and allows you to stand on your toes. Achilles tendinitis can occur as a result of injury, overuse or aging, states MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health. You will likely experience pain and tenderness along the tendon and notice significant swelling behind your heel. If you hear a pop or feel a pop, you may have ruptured your Achilles tendon and surgery may be necessary. Otherwise, Achilles tendinitis is commonly treated with conservative measures.
Rest
Resting your Achilles tendon is the first measure you should take to treat your tendinitis because it gives your body time to heal. For the first few days after your flare-up, avoid excessive standing or walking. If your tendinitis is severe, avoid walking and standing until you can tolerate these activities. Once your pain subsides after a few days, you can progressively begin to walk and stand; however, do not overdo it.
Ice Therapy
Ice therapy is effective in reducing inflammation, pain and swelling along your Achilles tendon. Ice will numb the back of your heel and reduce pain. In addition, ice will cause blood vessels in that area to shrink, which can reduce swelling. Ice your Achilles tendon by applying an ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables to the injured tendon for 20 minutes. Then, remove the ice for 20 minutes. Repeat this cycle as often as possible within the first three days of the onset of your Achilles tendinitis.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
According to the Mayo Clinic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Advil, Aleve or Motrin, can be used to treat your Achilles tendinitis. Choose NSAIDs over acetaminophen as NSAIDs can reduce the swelling in your tendon. Follow the directions on the medication label because NSAIDs can damage your digestive system or cause liver or kidney damage if used incorrectly.
Corticosteroid Injection
Your doctor may also recommend a corticosteroid injection into your heel to help alleviate your symptoms. This procedure can be effective because the corticosteroid will reduce the swelling behind your heel, which may ease your symptoms. There is a slight risk of infection associated with corticosteroid injections that you should consider. These injections can only be performed every three months because it can cause damage to the joint if overused.
Physical Therapy
Your doctor may recommend that you visit a physical therapist to treat your Achilles tendinitis. A physical therapist will teach you exercises that will strengthen your calf muscle and increase the range of motion of your foot. Be sure to attend all of your physical therapy sessions to get the most benefit from this treatment. Continue performing these exercises at home to prevent further Achilles tendinitis from occurring.
