Achilles Tendon Specialist
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South Denver Podiatry
Podiatrists located in Littleton, CO
As the largest tendon in your body, your Achilles tendon is what allows you to run, jump, turn, and step. Because it’s responsible for helping with just about every movement you make, caring board-certified podiatrist Karolina Varnay, DPM, of South Denver Podiatry offers solutions that can help you recover from Achilles tendon injuries — and even come back stronger. Before your Achilles tendon pain worsens, schedule an evaluation at this Littleton, Colorado, podiatry practice with the online booking feature. You can also call the clinic directly.
Achilles Tendon Q & A
What causes an Achilles tendon injury?
While a simple misstep or trip and fall can certainly lead to an Achilles tendon injury, it’s also one of the most common sports injuries, particularly among runners. Usually, an Achilles tendon injury stems from overusing or overstretching your tendon, which can lead to inflammation of the protective sheath, or of the Achilles tendon itself (sometimes both).
Inflammation of your Achilles tendon, which is known as Achilles tendinitis, or an Achilles tendon tear or rupture, often stem from:
- Inadequately warming up before activity
- Boosting your activity level too quickly
- Starting a new type of activity or sport
It’s also believed that having high arches or wearing shoes that don’t support your feet enough can also lead to Achilles tendon injuries.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury?
Your Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone, and the pain you experience can run anywhere along the back of your leg, into your heel. You may feel:
- Aching and burning
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Limited walking ability
- Discomfort while bearing weight on the affected leg
The longer you go without getting proper treatment for an Achilles tendon injury, the quicker the onset of pain and discomfort comes each time you exercise.
How are Achilles tendon injuries treated?
Dr. Varnay first performs a comprehensive physical exam to check for inflammation and signs of discomfort. She may also need to watch you walk, or even order an MRI imaging test to further diagnose your injury. Once she confirms an Achilles tendon injury, Dr. Varnay works with you to find solutions to help you heal.
Treating an Achilles tendon injury can include:
- Custom supportive orthotics
- AmnioFix® stem cell injections
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
- Cortisone injections
- Physical therapy
- Minimally invasive surgery to repair an Achilles tendon tear
If a workplace accident caused your Achilles tendon injury, the team at South Denver Podiatry can help. Dr. Varnay is a Level 1 Certified Workers’ Compensation practitioner and can process any essential paperwork requested.
To learn more about Achilles tendon treatments offered at South Denver Podiatry, request an appointment online or call the office.
