At Sarasota Foot Care Center, we understand how painful tendonitis can affect your mobility and quality of life. Tendonitis in the foot and ankle is a common condition that causes inflammation, discomfort, and limited movement. With early diagnosis and personalized care, our podiatrists in Sarasota, FL can help you recover and return to daily activities.

What Is Tendonitis?

Tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, which is the strong tissue that connects muscle to bone. Several tendons in the foot and ankle may be affected, including:

• Achilles Tendon: Connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping.
• Posterior Tibial Tendon: Supports the arch and helps maintain foot stability.
• Peroneal Tendons: Located along the outer ankle, these tendons help stabilize the foot.
• Flexor Tendons: Help curl the toes and support foot function.
• Extensor Tendons: Allow the toes and foot to lift upward.

Causes of Tendonitis

Tendonitis most often develops due to repetitive stress or overuse. Contributing factors include:

• Overuse: Repetitive movements, especially in athletes and active individuals.
• Improper Footwear: Shoes that lack support or cushioning.
• Injury: Sudden trauma or abrupt increases in activity.
• Biomechanical Issues: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait.
• Aging: Natural loss of tendon elasticity over time.
• Underlying Conditions: Arthritis, diabetes, or other medical conditions.

Symptoms of Tendonitis

• Pain or tenderness along the affected tendon.
• Swelling or inflammation.
• Stiffness or limited range of motion.
• Weakness in the foot or ankle.
• Pain that worsens with activity.

Conservative Treatment Options

Most cases of tendonitis can be treated without surgery. Our podiatrists may recommend:

• Rest: Limiting activities that worsen symptoms.
• Ice Therapy: Reduces swelling and pain.
• Compression and Elevation: Helps control inflammation.
• Proper Footwear: Supportive shoes or inserts.
• Orthotics: Custom insoles to improve foot mechanics and reduce tendon strain.
• Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief.

Advanced Treatment Options

If conservative care does not provide relief, additional treatment options may include:

• Corticosteroid Injections: To reduce inflammation when appropriate.
• Immobilization: Bracing or walking boot to allow healing.
• Laser Therapy: Promotes tissue healing and reduces pain.
• Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT): Highly effective, non-invasive FDA cleared treatment that uses acoustic sound waves to reduce pain and stimulate tissue healing.
• Regenerative Therapy: A non-surgical, injectable regenerative medicine product derived from human umbilical cord and amniotic membrane, designed to reduce inflammation, minimize scarring and promote tissue repair.

Surgical Treatment Options

In severe or chronic cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the damaged tendon. Our podiatrists will determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on your condition.

Preventing Tendonitis

• Stretch before physical activity.
• Gradually increase exercise intensity.
• Wear supportive footwear.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Address foot alignment issues early.

Get Relief from Tendonitis Today!

If you are experiencing symptoms of tendonitis, Sarasota Foot Care Center is here to help. Call (941) 917-6232 or schedule an appointment today to meet with our podiatrists and start your path to recovery.