Tendonitis occurs when the tendons that attach bone to muscle become inflamed and very painful. While an acute injury can cause tendonitis, often the condition is from the stretching and loosening of the tendons over time with overuse.
There are multiple types of tendonitis in the foot and ankle – extensor along the top of the foot; flexor from the inside of your ankle under your toes; and posterior tibial from the back of the leg running under the foot. You are more likely to get tendonitis in your foot if you are overweight, have arthritis or diabetes, smoke or are over 40. People who spend long periods on their feet or do not properly rest between physical activities can develop tendonitis.
Your Achilles is the tendon that connects your calf to your foot, behind your ankle. Because the Achilles is used every time you walk, run or jump, it is prone to overuse and tendonitis.
With in-office X-rays, we can properly diagnose tendonitis in the foot, ankle and Achilles. The podiatrists at Hattiesburg Clinic can provide treatment plans that include physical therapy and steroid injections, if needed.
If you suspect you have tendonitis or have persistent foot or ankle pain, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our podiatrists. Let our team help minimize your pain and restore your quality of life.