Achilles Disorders

Achilles tendon disorders may lead to permanent tissue damage when left untreated. At Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center in McKinney, Texas, foot and ankle specialist Dr. Benjamin Clair, DPM, diagnoses and treats Achilles tendon disorders, offering the most advanced treatment options so you get the best outcomes. Don’t ignore your ankle pain. Call Dr. Clair’s office today or schedule an appointment online. 

What are Achilles tendon disorders?

Achilles tendon disorders include acute and chronic conditions that affect the Achilles tendon — the large tendon that attaches your calf muscle to your heel. Your Achilles tendon helps raise the heel when walking, running, and jumping. 

Types of Achilles tendon disorders include:

Achilles tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is inflammation of the tendon due to overuse. This is an acute condition that resolves over time when properly treated.

Retrocalcaneal bursitis

Retrocalcaneal bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursa sacs) that act as a cushion between the Achilles tendon and the heel pain. This is also an overuse injury. 

Achilles tendinosis

Achilles tendinosis is degeneration of the Achilles tendon that occurs when Achilles tendinitis goes untreated. The continued use of the tendon leads to tiny tears in the tissue, affecting its structure.

I have pain in my heel. Do I have an Achilles tendon disorder?

Heel pain is a symptom of many foot and ankle problems. If you have heel pain within or along the tendon, then you may have an Achilles tendon disorder. 

Achilles tendon disorders may also cause tenderness when you squeeze on the tendon from the sides. When you have tissue degeneration, your tendon may enlarge, or you may develop nodules. 

If you suspect you have an Achilles tendon disorder, schedule a consultation at Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center.

What can I expect during an evaluation for Achilles tendon disorders?

You can expect a patient-centered exam from Dr. Clair of Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center when you come in with concerns about your Achilles tendon. He asks about your symptoms and when they started. He also reviews your usual activities and medical history.

He then examines your ankle, paying close attention to your range of motion and the condition of your tendon. Dr. Clair may order X-rays to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.  

What are the treatments for Achilles tendon disorders?

At Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. Clair customizes treatment plans for Achilles tendon disorders based on the type and severity of damage. For acute conditions, Dr. Clair may recommend:

• Immobilization of the ankle
• Icing
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Orthotics
• Night splints
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Physical therapy
• Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC)

If your condition is chronic or medical interventions fail to improve your Achilles tendon disorder, Dr. Clair may recommend surgery. 

Call Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center today or book an appointment online to learn more about treatments for Achilles tendon disorders.