Person with achilles tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis Treatment

Achilles tendonitis is a serious injury that can lead to limited mobility, tightness, swelling, and physical discomfort.  Our board-certified podiatrist performs surgical and non-surgical treatments that provide life-changing relief in Romeo, MI. Washington Foot and Ankle specializes in personalized Achilles tendonitis treatment that provides lasting relief for all patients. 

Important Achilles Tendon Details

Achilles Tendon Basics

The Achilles tendon is the cord of tissue that connects calf muscles to the heel bone. The Achilles tendon is important for walking, running, and jumping.

What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. We can resolve many patients' Achilles issues without surgery.

Those who require surgery should know that tendon debridement has a patient satisfaction rate of up to 90%.

Types of Tendonitis

There are two types of Achilles tendonitis: noninsertional tendonitis and insertional tendonitis.

Noninsertional Achilles Tendonitis

Noninsertional Achilles tendonitis affects the middle portion of the tendon. It is typically seen in younger, more active patients.

Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower section of the tendon where it attaches to the heel. This form of tendonitis is often accompanied by bone spurs. 

A Closer Look At Achilles Tendonitis

Illustration highlighting an inflammatory injury of the Achilles Tendon, which is painful and swelling
Achilles tendonitis causes inflammation of your Achilles tendon, or heel band. That means it is sore, irritated, and weakened — which can get worse with every step. So, it's completely understandable why you might feel daily pain and tension. Fortunately, our Romeo team can help bring you relief.

Causes of
Achilles Tendonitis

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Repetitive stress is typically the root cause of Achilles tendonitis. This can be the result of ongoing physical exertion of the tendon when exercising, a sudden increase in activity levels, unsupportive footwear, bone spurs, the weakening of the tendon with age, or even a condition like Haglund's deformity.

Signs & Symptoms

You may be suffering from Achilles tendonitis if you experience:

  • Discomfort or swelling that worsens after activity
  • Limited range of motion when flexing your foot
  • Pain and stiffness along the tendon
  • Difficulty walking and exercising
  • Tightening of the calf muscles
  • Deformity of your heel bone

I'm Not a Runner Can I Still Have Exercise-Related Achilles Tendonitis?

Yes, you can. Running isn't the only activity that can lead to Achilles tendonitis.

Other sports and activities, like basketball or workouts on the stair machine, can also contribute. You don't even have to be active every day to have this condition.

If you notice symptoms like a popping sound, heel pain, or tightness, visit our Romeo practice.

Are You Experiencing Achilles Tendon Pain? Reach Out to Washington Foot and Ankle for Achilles Care

Treating tendonitis now can prevent increased pain and more costly intervention later on. When Achilles tendonitis is left untreated, it typically worsens and can lead to an enormously painful Achilles tendon rupture. A simple exam with X-rays at Washington Foot and Ankle may be the difference between needing simple therapeutic care or complex surgical treatment.

Dr. Chanda J. Corbin offers individualized Achilles tendonitis treatment for patients of all activity levels in Romeo, MI. From conservative options such as physical therapy and orthotics to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and surgery, Dr. Corbin can work with you to find a treatment that provides the best solution for your activity level. Contact us today for an Achilles tendon evaluation.

(586) 372-7200

Washington Foot and Ankle office

We Make Romeo, MI, Happy

1

Michelle DeMeyer

2022

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What a great clinic; respectful and pleasant, from the time you walk in, till you walk out, on the phone, and then to the operating room. What a great experience overall! Definitely recommend Dr. Corbin and her wonderful staff! Thank you for making my toe feel better

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1

Deana Young

2021

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I would absolutely recommend Dr. Corbin and Staff. They made everything from scheduling appointments to post surgical care stress free. Dr Corbin explained treatments and valued my opinion on how proceed. A great clinic with caring people.

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We Tailor Treatment to Your Needs 

Dr. Corbin believes in the importance of customizing treatment for all patients. Regardless of which treatment you and your doctor choose, it is of the utmost importance that patients address any pain in the heel or foot as soon as possible. Do not put yourself at risk for further injury. The following are her most popular Achilles tendon treatments:

Surgical Care

Patients who do not find relief from conservative treatments or who suffer from chronic issues and tears may benefit from surgery to remove, repair, or reconstruct the damaged tendon. As a board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Corbin can provide safe, precise surgical care to effectively remedy the issue. 

Discuss Surgery Options

PRP Therapy

Dr. Corbin may also utilize PRP therapy to stimulate recovery by increasing collagen reproduction. PRP therapy uses biological material from your blood which is then injected into the treatment area. PRP is often provided to athletes who need a shorter downtime and decreased chances of re-injury. In some cases, PRP therapy may be provided as an alternative to surgery. For others, PRP may be used to aid in recovery in conjunction with their surgical procedure.

Discuss PRP Therapy
Orthopedic Insole

Non-Surgical Treatments

Following an exam, we can review different non-surgical treatments for Achilles tendonitis and which options may be right for you.

RICE Method

The combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation is often effective if administered immediately after an injury.

Orthotic Insoles

We work with a trusted local company to provide custom orthotic insoles that reduce tendon strain by lifting the heel.

Casts

Achilles tendonitis that results in rupture may require a cast to prevent stretching and strain while keeping the tendon flexed.

Physical Therapy

Massage, stretching, and guided movements can decrease tension, restore tendon motion, and strengthen calf muscles.

You Don't Have to Be in Pain Let Us Help

After spending weeks, months, or even years in pain, it can be hard to imagine a future without your heel throbbing.

Though finding care may seem difficult, it can help to remember that you're already uncomfortable. With the help of our caring, knowledgeable team, you can finally see a world without daily discomfort.

Dr. Corbin provides a variety of effective Achilles tendonitis treatments, ranging from PRP therapy to casts. To learn more about your options, contact our friendly Romeo, MI, office staff. You can also call us at:

(586) 372-7200

Dr. Corbin and staff
Don't wait another minute. Board-certified surgeon Dr. Corbin has helped patients like you find relief for over 20 years.

More Rave Reviews From Romeo, MI

1

Danielle Scott

2022

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Everyone is very friendly and helpful. I never had to wait more than a few minutes in the waiting room.

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Jessica Scott

2021

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Dr. Corbin is very knowledgeable, personable, and patient. She explained everything very well and made me feel at ease! Everyone at the office was very friendly and the office was very clean and sanitary. I would absolutely recommend her!

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Will I Need Surgery?

When it comes to Achilles pain and inflammation, we turn to less intensive treatment options first. However, if you have torn your tendon, then you may need surgery to repair the damage. Surgery can also relieve long-term Achilles inflammation and tension, so you can stop feeling discomfort with every step.

How Surgery Works For the Achilles Tendon

This tendon procedure is safe and can be minimally invasive. Usually, patients are able to return home and rest on the day of their surgery.
This tendon procedure is safe and can be minimally invasive. Usually, patients are able to return home and rest on the day of their surgery.

Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Corbin will discuss your symptoms. She also will examine your heel via X-ray to see if the Achilles has torn or ruptured.

Sedation

Before your surgery, we will sedate and numb you to ensure your comfort during the procedure. 

Opening

With a precise opening in the calf muscles and then the tendon sheath, Dr. Corbin will be able to access your Achilles tendon.

Treatment

This next step varies based on your needs. Dr. Corbin may close a tendon tear. If the injury is widespread, she may take away pieces of the tendon and possibly reposition a different tendon in their place. 

Stitches

After she has conducted the surgery, Dr. Corbin will reconnect the sheath and calf muscles with temporary stitches. This will help you heal quicker and easier.

Protection

To protect your heel bone and tendon as you recover, we will place your ankle in a splint.

You will also receive crutches.

Rest

Once you have been cleared to go home, a trusted friend or family member will need to drive you back. You can get some rest afterwards, taking care to elevate your leg.

Check-In

Once ten or so days have passed, we will welcome you for a check-in visit. There, Dr. Corbin will carefully remove your stitches and ask about your progress.

Begin Your Treatment

Affordable Achilles Care

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Insurance typically covers foot, ankle, and Achilles services provided by podiatrists. Our team accepts insurance and can advise you on how to get the most out of your benefits. We also accept credit cards, cash, and checks for Achilles tendon treatment.

"Thankful for this Doctor and Staff!" ​Romeo, MI, Patients Come to Us for Quality Treatment

1

dawn waage

2021

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EXCELLENT!! I loved everything about my experience with Dr. Corbin and her Staff! Very professional and friendly. Before and after my foot surgery - they followed through with everything!! Surgery went well and Dr. Corbin was amazing! Thankful for this Doctor and Staff! :)

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Larry Evans

2021

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Dr. Corbin is knowledgeable and possesses outstanding interpersonal skills. I rarely write a review, but feel that exceptional service deserves recognition.

I highly recommend Dr. Corbin.

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Schedule an Appointment

Do not let foot and ankle problems slow you down. Put your best foot forward with the professionals at Washington Foot and Ankle. Call (586) 372-7200 to make a same-day appointment at our Romeo office or contact us to schedule a visit. We will be more than happy to help you get back on your feet.

Dr. Corbin

Washington Foot & Ankle

Dr. Chanda J. Corbin and the team at Washington Foot and Ankle in Romeo want to help patients of all ages maintain their mobility and put their best foot forward. Dr. Corbin is:

  • Board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery
  • A Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
  • A staff member at Beaumont Hospital in Troy, MI
  • An instructor at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

To book a same-day appointment, reach out to us online or call us at (586) 372-7200.

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