When you’re active, you ache. When you wake up, there’s morning stiffness in your ankle. And when you move your foot too quickly, a sharp pain runs through it. What’s going on?
One likely explanation: your body is signaling that you have tendonitis. This common inflammation can impact your comfort and limit your mobility, so don’t just hope it will vanish on its own. Below, New England Podiatry explains signs, symptoms, and more. Read on so you know what to watch for!
Tendon Talk: What Exactly Is Tendonitis?
Tendons are tough, flexible cords connecting muscles to bones, crucial for movement. Tendonitis occurs when these hard-working tendons become inflamed or irritated, usually due to overuse, repetitive strain, or an acute injury.
Common areas in the foot and ankle include:
- The Achilles tendon (back of heel)
- The posterior tibial tendon (inner ankle/arch)
- The peroneal tendons (outer ankle)
Spotting the Signs: How Do You Know If It’s Tendonitis?
Tendonitis symptoms can vary, but they often include:
- A Dull Ache or Pain: This is often the primary symptom, typically localized to the affected tendon. The pain might worsen with activity or after prolonged use.
- Tenderness to Touch: The specific tendon involved will likely be sore or tender if you press on it.
- Stiffness: You might notice stiffness in the affected joint or tendon, especially in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Mild Swelling or Warmth: Some inflammation can cause noticeable swelling or a feeling of warmth around the tendon.
Less commonly, some experience a grating sensation (crepitus) when the tendon moves.
The Danger of Delay: Why Ignoring Tendonitis is Risky
“Walking it off” is rarely a good strategy. Neglecting early signs can lead to:
- Chronic Tendonitis (Tendinosis): Unaddressed inflammation can become chronic, leading to tendon degeneration (microscopic tears). This stage, tendinosis, is often more challenging to treat.
- Increased Risk of Tears or Rupture: A chronically inflamed, degenerated tendon is weaker and more susceptible to partial or complete tearing, a much more serious injury that could require surgery.
- Compensatory Pain: Altering your gait to avoid pain can stress other areas, potentially causing new pain in your other foot, knees, hips, or back.
Accurate Diagnosis is Key
While these symptoms suggest tendonitis, other conditions, such as stress fractures or arthritis, can cause similar pain. An accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist, sometimes involving imaging like an X-ray or ultrasound, is crucial to ensure you receive the most appropriate care!
Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Zachary Sax, Dr. Joshua Oulette, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, and Dr. Raymond Murano III of New England Podiatry Associates provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!