Tendonitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the tough cords connecting muscle to bone, and while it is common, especially for active individuals, it can really hurt. And that’s not the worst part: left unchecked, it can lead to chronic issues or even a rupture.
Understanding how tendonitis develops, what to do when it strikes, and how to recover properly is key to staying active. In the following blog, Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland will explain all that and more!
BEFORE THE PAIN: Understanding Risks & Smart Prevention
Tendonitis often stems from repetitive stress or overuse. Activities that strain feet and ankles include:
- High-Impact Sports: Running, basketball, tennis, and soccer.
- Sudden Activity Increases: Jumping into intense workouts or drastically increasing training volume without proper conditioning.
- Improper Footwear: Shoes that are worn out, lacking support, or cushioning.
- Tight Muscles/Poor Biomechanics: Limited flexibility (especially in calf muscles for Achilles issues) or foot structure problems like flat feet.
Preventative Steps:
- Warm-Up Properly: Always prepare muscles and tendons before exercise!
- Stretch Consistently: Focus on flexibility, especially calves and Achilles.
- Gradual Progression: Increase activity levels slowly.
- Supportive Footwear: Choose shoes appropriate for your sport and foot type. Consider custom orthotics for biomechanical issues!
IN THE MOMENT: Recognizing & Responding
How do you know it’s tendonitis?
- The Feeling: Often starts as a dull ache or stiffness, especially after activity or in the morning, progressing to sharper pain with movement. The tendon is likely tender, with possible mild swelling or warmth.
- What Not To Do: Don’t “push through” significant pain. This can turn acute inflammation into a chronic problem or set the stage for a tear.
Healing Right to Avoid Rupture
Proper recovery is crucial to prevent tendonitis from becoming chronic (tendinopathy/tendon degeneration) or leading to a rupture.
Even elite athletes face serious tendon injuries. Jayson Tatum’s Achilles tendon rupture during the 2025 NBA playoffs is a stark reminder of this!
A Podiatrist’s Role in Your Recovery:
- Accurate diagnosis to confirm tendonitis and rule out issues like stress fractures.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: Beyond basic R.I.C.E., this may include:
- Activity modification andspecific guidance.
- Physical therapy andtargeted exercises for stretching, strengthening, and biomechanics.
- Custom orthotics, taping, or temporary bracing.
Tendonitis is your body’s warning. Listen to it! And if you’re already in need of assistance, please be sure to get in touch with us today.
Call Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland in Solon, Ohio, at (440) 903-1041 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Dr. Craig B. Frey, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, Dr. Jim Swienconek, Dr. Rachel Robinson, and Dr. Courtney Yoder treat patients in Portage, Geauga, Cuyahoga, and Summit Counties, proudly serving Solon, Aurora, Bedford, Chagrin Falls, Hudson, Macedonia, and Twinsburg, too.