Tendinitis
Tendinitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Tendinitis is a common condition caused by irritation or inflammation of a tendon. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones and help your body move smoothly and efficiently.
One of the most frequent types treated by podiatrists is Achilles tendinitis, which often causes pain in the heel, foot, or ankle. Other common forms include posterior tibial tendinitis and peroneal tendinitis, both of which can affect foot stability and movement.
What Causes Tendinitis?
Tendinitis usually develops from overuse or repetitive strain, especially during sports or physical activity. It may also be caused by:
- Inadequate stretching before exercise
- Poor body mechanics or improper technique
- Structural foot problems, such as flat feet
- Tight muscles, tight tendons, or arthritis
These risk factors can increase stress on the tendons and make some people more prone to developing tendinitis.
Tendinitis Symptoms
Common symptoms of foot and ankle tendinitis include:
- Pain that worsens with activity or movement
- Tenderness along the affected tendon
- Swelling or inflammation
Symptoms may start gradually and worsen over time if left untreated.
Home Treatment for Tendinitis
Mild tendinitis often improves with simple at‑home care, including:
- Resting the affected foot or ankle
- Applying ice for up to 15 minutes, three to four times per day
- Avoiding activities that increase pain while the tendon heals
Early self‑care can help reduce inflammation and prevent further injury.
When to See a Podiatrist for Tendinitis
If symptoms do not improve with rest and ice, or last longer than one week, it’s important to see a podiatrist. Prompt treatment can help prevent tendinitis from becoming a chronic or recurring problem.
Diagnosis and Professional Treatment
Your podiatrist will review your symptoms and perform a thorough examination of your foot and ankle. Imaging tests, such as X‑rays or MRI, may be ordered to rule out fractures or tendon tears.
Treatment plans are tailored to your condition and may include:
- Custom shoe inserts (orthotics) or a soft cast
- Temporary immobilization to allow healing
- Medications to relieve pain and inflammation
With proper care, most cases of tendinitis improve within a few weeks.
Preventing Tendinitis
To reduce the risk of tendinitis returning, your podiatrist may recommend:
- Custom orthotics to support proper foot alignment
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle
- Gradually increasing activity levels
For example, slowly training for a 5K rather than starting at full distance can significantly reduce strain on your tendons.