Achilles Tendon Pain Specialist
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Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists
Dr. Maurice W. Aiken, DPM
Podiatry & Alternative Medicine located in Dunedin, FL
Achilles tendon pain is a common problem that affects more than one million Americans each year. If your pain interferes with your ability to work or exercise, don’t wait to seek professional help. At Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, Maurice W. Aiken, DPM, offers several types of nonsurgical treatment for Achilles tendon pain, including Erchonia® cold laser therapy. To make an appointment at the practice in Dunedin, Florida, call the office today or schedule online.
Achilles Tendon Pain Q & A
What is Achilles tendon pain?
Achilles tendon pain refers to any stiffness, aching, or general discomfort that affects your Achilles tendon, a band of thick tissue that connects your calf muscle to your heel bone.
Most people who experience Achilles tendon pain achieve relief through at-home treatments like ice and rest. But if your symptoms last for several days or more, make an appointment at Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists.
What are the symptoms of Achilles tendon pain?
Symptoms of Achilles tendon pain include:
- A mild, dull ache at the back of your leg
- Increased pain after walking, running, or climbing stairs
- Stiffness
- Tenderness
- Pain that’s worse in the morning
As Achilles tendon pain worsens, you might also find it difficult to stand up or place weight on your affected foot and ankle.
Who is at risk of experiencing Achilles tendon pain?
Anyone can experience Achilles tendon pain, but there are several factors that increase your risk, including:
- Being male
- Being middle-aged or older
- Having high arches or tight calf muscles
- Weight issues
- Having an underlying medical condition like psoriasis or high blood pressure
Your exercise habits can also increase your risk of Achilles tendon pain. For example, you’re more likely to experience tendon pain if you run or exercise in shoes that are worn-out.
How is Achilles tendon pain diagnosed?
To diagnose Achilles tendon pain, Dr. Aiken reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms, including their severity, and if any activities like exercising or standing for extended periods make them worse.
Afterward, Dr. Aiken physically examines your Achilles tendon. He gently presses on the back of your ankle to pinpoint areas of warmth, tenderness, or swelling. Then, he assesses the strength, range of motion, and flexibility of your foot and ankle.
If necessary, Dr. Aiken might order additional tests like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to rule out underlying issues like fractures or a dislocated joint.
How is Achilles tendon pain treated?
At Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. Aiken treats Achilles tendon pain with successful and effective non-surgical treatment options. He might recommend:
- Erchonia® cold laser therapy
- Custom orthotics
- Physical therapy
- Activity modifications
To receive comprehensive care for Achilles tendon pain, make an appointment at Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling the office today or booking online.
