Our Services / Achilles Tendon

What is the Achilles tendon?

Your Achilles tendon is a tough band of tissue that connects your heel bones to your calves. It plays an important role in daily motions (like walking, running, and climbing stairs), but it may undergo wear-and-tear as you age.

If you experience pain, swelling, or increased sensitivity in your calves, ankles, or heels, please reach out to Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center for further assistance.

What are the symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury?

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include:

• Pain in your calves
• Pain that worsens during exercise or other activities
• A stiff or sore Achilles tendon
• Swelling that worsens as the day goes on

If you have an Achilles tendon injury, you may also hear a snapping or popping sound when it first occurs.

Who is at risk of experiencing an Achilles tendon injury?

Several factors may increase your risk of an Achilles tendon injury, including:

• Starting a new sport
• Suddenly increasing your activity level
• Having tight calf muscles
• Having bone spurs
• Wearing the wrong shoes during exercise

You’re also more likely to suffer an Achilles tendon injury if you run or do other exercises on uneven surfaces.

How is an Achilles tendon injury diagnosed?

At Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. DeCarbo diagnoses Achilles tendon injuries when you come into the office for a visit.

During your appointment, Dr. DeCarbo reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including where the pain occurs, if it extends into other parts of your body, and if it worsens during certain activities.

Next, Dr. DeCarbo conducts a physical exam, checking for signs of bone spurs, pain, or swelling. He may also ask you to perform a series of easy stretches and exercises to assess your ankle’s strength and range of motion. If necessary, Dr. DeCarbo may order X-rays to rule out a fracture or a dislocated joint as well.

How is an Achilles tendon injury treated?

Treatment of an Achilles tendon injury depends on several factors, including your age, medical history, and the severity of your symptoms. Dr. DeCarbo may recommend:

• Ice
• Rest
• Elevation
• Physical therapy
• Custom orthotics
• Exercises to strengthen your calf muscles
• A cast, splint, or a walking boot
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)

If conservative treatments don’t provide lasting relief, you may benefit from surgery. Dr. DeCarbo offers several types of Achilles tendon repair, using traditional and noninvasive measures.

To make an appointment for Achilles Tendon treatment, call the Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center in Wexford, Pennsylvania, or book online today.