Foot Tendonitis Treatment in Shreveport, LA

Tendons exist all over the body as the conjoining pieces between muscle and bone. Normally, these fibrous bundles of tissue can withstand a fair amount of tension and activity, but it is also possible for them to become overworked and inflamed. This inflammation of a tendon is known as tendonitis.

A common cause of foot and ankle pain, tendonitis can develop in several specific areas of the foot. The Achilles tendon, peroneal tendon, flexor tendon, extensor tendon, and peroneal tendon can all be compromised by this type of chronic inflammation, and may require professional treatment if they have worsened to a severe degree.

What Causes Foot & Ankle Tendonitis?

As mentioned, foot tendonitis can occur in those that put too much stress on their tendons, which most often refers to competitive athletes. However, any sort of repetitive motion completed over a substantial period of time can wear and tear on the tendons of the body, causing them to swell.

Who Is at Risk of Developing Tendonitis?

In addition to competing in athletic events, there are several other factors that can influence the likelihood for an individual to have tendonitis, such as their:

• Age: Men and women of a more mature age are much more likely to have tendonitis.
• Job: There are many positions that include repetitive motions in their daily activities, particularly in laborious careers like manufacturing or construction.
• Prior trauma to the foot or ankle: Any injuries already suffered by the tendons in the foot can of course be prone to reinjury in the future.
• Existing medical conditions: Several health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes can put an individual at an increased risk to develop tendonitis.

While certain risk factors are impossible to avoid, it is always advised for a person with symptoms of foot tendonitis to rest the affected area in order to prevent additional damage to the tendons and surrounding tissues. Stretching before engaging in any regular activities, even those as minimal as walking, can greatly reduce a person’s risk for straining the tendons in their foot. Wearing appropriate, supportive footwear is another excellent way to minimize injury to this area.

What Are the Symptoms of Foot Tendonitis?

It is, of course, best to diagnose a person’s tendonitis as soon as possible, as the case could become much more severe over time and even lead to a rupture of the tendon. With a ruptured tendon, the patient will notice a sort of gap along the line of the tendon in addition to intense pain as they attempt to move the foot.

The most common symptoms associated with foot tendonitis include:

• Pain, which will typically worsen as the affected tendon is activated by movement
• Inflammation
• Redness
• A crackling or grating sensation
• Formation of a lump along the tendon

How Does Dr. Morreale Treat Tendonitis?

If you suspect that you may have foot tendonitis, it is highly advised to seek expert care from a specialist like Dr. Angelo Morreale, who will be able to give recommendations for treatment based upon your individual case. The biggest determining factor will usually have to do with the exact tendon affected and how significant the damage to that tendon is.

Most often, Dr. Morreale will start the treatment process with noninvasive methods such as anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy. If these treatments have proved ineffective, it may be time to consider a boot to immobilize the foot, or surgery to repair and potentially reattach the tendon if it has ruptured.