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Find Relief and Strength with Next Journey Orthopaedics

At Next Journey Orthopaedics, we understand the challenges that Achilles tendonitis can present. This condition affects the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. With our specialized treatment plans, we aim to alleviate your pain, restore mobility, and help you return to your daily activities.

Understanding Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often resulting from overuse or repetitive stress. It commonly affects athletes, particularly runners, but can also occur in individuals who have recently increased their physical activity levels.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis

Pain: A dull or sharp pain along the back of the leg near the heel, often worsening with activity.
Stiffness: Notable stiffness in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Swelling: Swelling along the tendon or at the back of the heel.
Tenderness: Sensitivity when touching or moving the affected area.

Risk Factors for Achilles Tendonitis

Several factors can increase the risk of developing Achilles tendonitis:

- Sudden Increase in Activity: Rapidly intensifying workout intensity or duration.

- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes lacking adequate support.

- Tight Calf Muscles: Limited flexibility can strain the Achilles tendon.

- Age: Tendon flexibility decreases with age, increasing susceptibility.

- Foot Structure: Flat arches can place additional stress on the tendon.

Diagnosis of Achilles Tendonitis

At Next Journey Orthopaedics, we use a comprehensive evaluation to accurately diagnose Achilles tendonitis and determine the best treatment approach.

- Medical History & Physical Exam: Assessment of pain, swelling, activity level, and tendon tenderness.

- Ultrasound: Identifies inflammation, thickening, or small tears.

- X-ray: Rules out bone spurs or fractures.

- MRI: Provides detailed imaging of tendon degeneration or severe tears.

Early diagnosis ensures effective treatment, reducing pain and preventing further damage.

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendonitis

At Next Journey Orthopaedics, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your specific needs:

Non-Surgical Treatments

-Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing or temporarily halting activities that exacerbate symptoms.

-Physical Therapy: Implementing stretching and strengthening exercises to enhance flexibility and support healing.

-Medications: Utilizing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

-Orthotics: Providing custom shoe inserts or heel lifts to reduce tendon strain.

Surgical Treatments

If non-surgical methods are ineffective after several months, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options include:

-Debridement and Repair: Removing damaged tendon tissue and repairing the remaining healthy tendon.

-Gastrocnemius Recession: Lengthening the calf muscles to decrease tension on the Achilles tendon.

-Tendon Transfer: Utilizing another tendon to reinforce or replace the damaged Achilles tendon in severe cases.

Why Choose Next Journey Orthopaedics?

    - Expertise in Lower Extremity Conditions – Our board-certified orthopaedic specialists have extensive experience treating Achilles tendonitis with both conservative and surgical techniques.

    - State-of-the-Art Technology – We use advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive procedures for optimal patient outcomes.

    - Personalized Treatment Plans– Every patient receives individualized care tailored to their specific condition and lifestyle.

    - Comprehensive Rehabilitation Programs – We provide physical therapy and long-term prevention strategies to reduce recurrence risk.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

At Next Journey Orthopaedics, we are committed to providing exceptional care for achilles tendonitis and other musculoskeletal injuries. Our goal is to help you return to your daily activities safely and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our orthopaedic specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When should I seek medical attention for Achilles tendonitis?

If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness in the Achilles tendon that does not improve with rest, it is advisable to consult an orthopaedic specialist.

2. How long does recovery from Achilles tendonitis take?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and adherence to treatment. Non-surgical treatments may lead to improvement within a few weeks to months, while surgical recovery can take several months.

3. Can Achilles tendonitis be prevented?

While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce the risk by gradually increasing activity levels, wearing appropriate footwear, and performing regular stretching exercises to maintain flexibility.

4. What are the potential complications if Achilles tendonitis is left untreated?

Neglecting treatment can lead to chronic pain, tendon degeneration, or even tendon rupture, which may require surgical intervention.

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