The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It enables a person to walk, run and jump. Achilles tendonitis refers to an inflammation of the tendon. The condition can result from a repetitive activity involving the Achilles tendon, or from a sudden increase in the amount or intensity of exercise. The treatment for Achilles tendonitis depends on how long the injury has been present and the extent of damage to the tendon.
Reduce Activities
Reducing activities or even abstaining from them can help the injured tendon heal. This may involve not exercising for several days, reducing the duration and intensity of the routine, or switching to an activity that doesn't strain the Achilles tendon, reports MayoClinic.com.
Cold Compress
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends using a cold compress on the Achilles tendon to help reduce the pain and swelling. An ice pack or cold compress can be applied throughout the day for up to 20 minutes at a time. A person who uses a cold compress should monitor his skin. Reddened or numb skin could indicate tissue damage from over-exposure to the cold. Reducing the amount of time or frequency of the cold pack can remedy this if it occurs.
Restrict Movement of the Leg
The Foot Health Facts website from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons suggests immobilizing the affected foot with a cast or a removable walking boot to prevent further stress to the tendon and to promote healing. Wrapping the affected foot or applying compressive elastic bandages can help reduce movement and decrease swelling of the tendon as well, reports MayoClinic.com.
Raise the Foot
Raising the affected foot above the level of the heart when sitting or lying down can reduce swelling and provide pain relief, according to MayoClinic.com. Raising the foot helps promote better circulation of blood through the foot and prevents additional fluids from collecting around the injured area, which would increase the swelling. A foot stool with an added pillow can raise the foot appropriately while sitting. A pillow underneath the foot while lying down can sufficiently elevate it to the suggested level.
Medications
Taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce the pain and swelling. Long-term use of NSAIDs can cause stomach pain, stomach bleeding, ulcers and other side effects, explains MayoClinic.com. The doctor may prescribe different medication to avoid these side effects if the injury requires continual treatment with pain medication.
Surgery
Doctors may recommend surgery if nonsurgical treatments fail to restore the tendon back to its normal condition. The surgery repairs the damaged tissue and improves function of the tendon. The Foot Health Facts website notes that the type of surgery used depends upon the extent of the injury and the activity level of the individual.
