Tendon Injuries Specialist

What are the symptoms of a tendon injury?

Tendons are a type of connective tissue that connects your muscles to your bones. Tendon are found throughout your body and add strength and stability to your muscle movements. Tendon injuries typically occur around the joints in your shoulder, elbow, foot, and ankles. Symptoms include:

• Pain that worsens with activity
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Warmth or redness

The pain caused by a tendon injury often increases after long periods of rest like lying in a chair or bed. Tendon injuries can happen suddenly or develop gradually over time. Tendon injuries are common in people who play sports or work jobs that require repetitive motions. There are a number of different types of tendon injuries that refer to microscopic, partial, or complete tears of your tendons. 

What is Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is a very common tendon injury that affects the tendons that connect your calf muscles to your heel. Achilles tendinitis is caused by repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon. Many people develop Achilles tendinitis as a result of increasing the intensity of their exercise too quickly. This prevents your body from having time to adjust to the increased stress, which leads to tendinitis. Exercising with tight calf muscles or having a bone spur can also increase your risk of Achilles tendinitis. 

What is a tendon rupture?

A tendon rupture refers to a partial or complete tear to the tendons in your foot or ankle. A ruptured or torn tendon is a serious injury that typically requires surgical treatment. Ruptured tendons can occur as a result of sudden injuries or long-term damage that has weakened the structure of your tendon. Untreated overuse injuries like Achilles tendinitis can eventually lead to a tendon rupture, resulting in severe pain and limited mobility. 

How are tendon injuries treated?

Your treatment depends on the type and severity of your tendon injury. To diagnose your condition, Dr. Nellas performs a thorough examination, including a physical exam and imaging tests. In most cases, tendon injuries can be effectively treated through conservative methods. Depending on your diagnosis, Dr. Nellas may recommend:

• RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Injections
• Orthotics
• Footwear changes

If you suffer from a severe injury like a ruptured tendon, you may need surgery. Dr. Nellas offers a number of safe and effective surgical procedures to repair your damaged tissue and restore health and function to your foot and ankle. To find out which treatment is right for your tendon injury, call the office or book an appointment online today.