This can take the form of dull aches, sharp pains, or discomfort. Such pain is often accompanied by stiffness, which can limit the range of motion of your feet. It can also prevent you from putting weight on your foot during more intense periods of pain.
Tendons are thick, fibrous tissues that connect your muscles to bones. When these become inflamed or irritated, the condition is called tendonitis, and uncomfortable effects may present as a result. Tendonitis can occur in many places across the body, but it’s most prevalent in the foot. When tendonitis does occur in the feet, it can cause discomfort and limit your ability to walk.
Who Tendonitis Typically Affects
Tendonitis is experienced when a tendon becomes inflamed or experiences microscopic tears due to overuse, injury, or aging. As such, tendonitis is often indiscriminate in who it affects, provided they meet those qualifiers.
However, as tendonitis is often experienced by those who may have added pressure on their feet or are advanced in age, this condition can disproportionately affect the elderly or those at an unhealthy weight. Overuse is another common cause, meaning tendonitis can also affect athletes or those who engage in professions where prolonged standing and walking is required more often than others.
It’s important to know that tendonitis can affect anyone though, and if you do experience it, correct treatment pathways are essential to pursue.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Tendonitis
The most common symptoms of tendonitis are:
Effective Treatment Options for Tendonitis
If you believe that you have tendonitis, it’s always important to speak to your podiatrist to consider your treatment pathway. But what will a qualified foot and ankle doctor recommend to you? Let’s outline some of the most common treatments available:
Rest
As tendonitis can sometimes be caused by overuse or injury stemming from that, rest may be your primary recovery tool. Taking weight off your feet, only conducting light exercise each day, and supporting your weight with mobility aids can be a worthwhile step forward as your swelling reduces.
Medications
Certain medications designed to fight inflammation (such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen) can be helpful in managing tendonitis. You may also be prescribed stronger medication depending on the extent of your condition. Speak to your podiatrist about medicinal options for your particular condition and case.
Rehab
Rehabilitation exercises can play a vital role in strengthening your feet and ankles. A physical therapist can put together a tailored program to help you improve flexibility and boost your overall foot health. This may not be your sole treatment, but it can serve as a fantastic and endlessly useful supplement for it.
Supportive shoes/braces
Like mobility aids, supportive shoes or braces can help you take the weight off certain parts of your foot or distribute it in the correct manner. After all, supportive shoes of this nature can help with broken bones, and so they may be able to assist you with inflammation issues or tendon damage.
Contact Teton Foot & Ankle Today for Help with Tendonitis
If you're experiencing persistent foot pain, stiffness, or swelling, seeking professional help is crucial. Teton Foot & Ankle specializes in diagnosing and treating various foot conditions, including tendonitis and many of its symptoms. Reach out to us today to set up an appointment.
Our experienced and friendly team can provide a comprehensive evaluation, develop a customized treatment plan, and guide you towards a pain-free and active lifestyle. This will rapidly enhance your quality of life and may even help you prevent aggravating the symptoms of tendonitis again.
Contact us by filling out our helpful contact form or by calling us at (208) 528-6225. We look forward to helping you with your foot and ankle health!
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