Achilles Tendon Treatment

Expert care for Achilles injuries and conditions

Board-certified podiatrists
Same-day appointments
Most insurance accepted

Book Appointment Call (321) 723-3500

About Achilles Tendon Treatment

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It's used when you walk, run, climb stairs, jump, and stand on tiptoe. Achilles tendon problems range from tendinitis (inflammation) to complete rupture, and proper treatment is essential for full recovery.

Common Symptoms

Pain along the back of the leg near the heel

Stiffness in the morning that improves with activity

Swelling that worsens throughout the day

Thickening of the tendon

Limited range of motion when flexing the foot

A popping sound with sudden pain (rupture)

Difficulty walking or climbing stairs

Common Causes

Overuse and repetitive stress
Sudden increase in physical activity
Tight calf muscles
Bone spurs irritating the tendon
Flat feet that strain the tendon
Improper footwear
Age-related degeneration
Certain medications (fluoroquinolone antibiotics)

Treatment Options

1Conservative Treatment

Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing stress on the tendon
Ice Therapy: Reducing pain and inflammation
Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises
Eccentric Exercises: Specialized exercises proven effective
Heel Lifts: Reducing strain on the tendon
Custom Orthotics: Correcting biomechanical issues
Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Promoting healing
PRP Injections: Regenerative medicine options

2Surgical Treatment

When conservative treatments don’t provide adequate relief, surgical correction may be recommended. Modern surgical techniques are minimally invasive with faster recovery times.

Gastrocnemius Recession: Lengthening tight calf muscles
Debridement and Repair: Removing damaged tissue
Tendon Transfer: Using another tendon to support healing
Achilles Tendon Repair: Reattaching a ruptured tendon

When to See a Podiatrist

See a podiatrist if you have persistent heel or calf pain, if you heard a pop followed by sudden pain, if you cannot push off your toes, if you have significant swelling near your heel, or if your symptoms interfere with normal activities.