The pieces of tissue that connect muscles to bones are known as tendons. Because of their organic nature, tendons can become stressed and inflamed--a condition called tendinitis. Tendinitis is found in a few common areas, but the feet are particularly susceptible. Obesity and repeated stressful use are known to be common contributing factors to tendinitis.
Swelling
Swelling is a common symptom of tendinitis. One of the main indicators that you are suffering from tendinitis is that the swelling will run along the shape of the tendon. To treat swelling, ice the foot and elevate it to drain the affected area.
Muscular Involvement
The feet are particularly susceptible to losing muscle when affected by tendinitis. They can also stiffen up after you have rested the affected area for too long. If you are suffering from tendinitis, you will notice that your muscles are weaker when you try to stand on your toes. This inability to stand on your toes, as stated by the MayoClinic.com, indicates that you have torn your tendon. If that is the case, you should seek the help of a trained medical professional immediately.
Pain
The two main symptoms of tendinitis are pain and tenderness. Pain can occur anywhere around the injury. In the feet, it can occur in the arches, on the sides, on the instep, and up through the Achilles tendon. It can be sharp and strong or dull and muffled, but both symptoms are more prevalent when the area has been touched. Usually, pain will be stronger during use of the affected area while it will be lessened while resting. It is important to have tendinitis treated, as it does not heal itself without taking the proper steps.
