Pain in the Achilles !!

So many of our patients suffer from what we in the medical field call "Tendonopathy". This is a vague term which encompasses a vast array of varying pathologic conditions, in both acute and chronic presentations.

Probably one of the main contributers to the more common tendonopathy that we see is the pressence of a large spur behind the heel which is associated near the insertion of the most important tendons in the foot and ankle - ie the Achilles tendon.

Numerous treatments in the literature have been described, and the main thing to consider in these situations, is that there are viable nonsurgical options available for this disorder. Many patients hesitate to present in the office of a physician with lumps and bumps on their extremities for fear of needing surgery. This is a problem, because most of the time these anxieties allow the pathologic process to worsen, and eventually by delaying treatment you are nearly obligating yourself to undergo the one treatment you were trying to avoid.  Surgery is always a last option for posterior heel pain, as this can require 3 months or more to recover from depending on the nature of the pathology and extent of procedures required to rectify the conditions. Many times, we can identify the extent of the pathology and at least rule out tearing or masses with the use of ultrasound technology which is readily available in the office. Often, we require MRI images to plan should nonsurgical options fail to reduce symptoms.

We offer state of the art high energy shock wave therapy coupled with PRP injections to the posterior achilles for pain and thickening, and to reduce symptoms from protruding and prominent boney areas behind the heel that may be penetrating through the tendon in this part of the foot, thus causing tendonopathy pain. This treatment is more effective in less chronic cases, but is usually able to reduce the pain and edema from these conditions in most cases. Shoegear choices are also a factor here, as many ill fitting shoes may contribute to pain in areas of boney prominences.

Do not hesitate to make an appointment, as we may be able to reduce your pain without surgery !