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(301)-843-9581

Clinton Office

(301)-868-3899

California Office

(301)-690-6044

Weekend Warriors Worst Enemy

With the brisk days of fall and the changing leaves, many of us are stirred from summer sluggishness and motivated to get outside and exercise. Sometimes, however, in our enthusiasm, we may go a little too far and a little too fast and end up with a painful condition known as Achilles tendonitis.

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis refers to the inflammation of the long tendon, sometimes called the “heel cord,” that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It is the largest tendon in the human body, able to withstand 1,000 pounds or more of force. It is also the most frequently ruptured tendon in the body and a common cause of pain for both professional athletes and the average person trying to get in shape. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:

  • Pain during and after exercise. Pain may be mild at first but then gradually worsens.
  • Minor or severe swelling in the calf and Achilles tendon area
  • Morning tenderness at a point about an inch and a half above where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel
  • Sluggishness in the leg
  • Stiffness in the tendon that usually decreases as the tendon gets warmed up with use

Treatment and Prevention

If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms, make an appointment with Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle at either our Waldorf or Clinton office. Our professional podiatrists, Dr. Larry Hotchkiss, Dr. Jashan Valjee, and Dr. Gregory Cardinal will do a complete assessment of your leg and ankle. Treatment for Achilles tendonitis usually involves rest and physical therapy to relieve symptoms and then modifications to your activities to prevent further inflammation of the tendon. Your podiatrist may recommend orthotics (special inserts for your shoes) to help support the muscles and relieve stress on the tendon as well as a bandage designed to restrict the movement of the tendon.

Of course, the best scenario is not to get Achilles tendonitis. You can help prevent it by:

  • Stretching and warming up properly before starting to exercise
  • Increasing distance and speed slowly and gradually over time in your workout sessions
  • Limiting hill running and stair climbing
  • Wearing properly fitted footwear

To learn more about fitness and your feet, visit our online library.

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule (Closed for Lunch from 11:30 am - 12:15 pm)

Clinton Office

Monday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Waldorf Office

Monday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

California Office

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

Closed

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed