If you’ve ever read the Greek story of Achilles in the Trojan War you know that the tendon named after him serves as a metaphor for the greatest weakness a person can have. This is quite fitting for the Achilles tendon, as damage to it can incapacitate a person. This tendon is the largest one found in humans and works to support and stabilize a patient’s entire body. Unfortunately, there are a wide variety of foot and ankle problems that can affect this tendon. With the right knowledge patients can prevent the onset of these problems, but if the condition develops our office can help to get people back on their feet as soon as possible.
What Is Achilles Tendinitis?
This inflammation of the Achilles tendon can come as a result of overuse or sports injuries. Many patients experience problems as they change their training regimen. Increasing inclines, duration, and length of training can all strain the ankle and aid in the development of tendinitis. The pain associated with this ankle condition is usually worse after a period of activity. In order to allow the Achilles tendon time to heal, many doctors recommend the R.I.C.E. method of treatment that focuses on rest and pain management. Many patients also employ the use of physical therapy, orthotics, and condition-specific exercises for pain relief and correction of the problem. For any questions related to the appropriate treatment of Achilles tendinitis for your lifestyle, schedule an appointment online with Dr. Evan Merrill.
Achilles Tendon Xanthoma
The development of xanthomas typically occurs as a result of high cholesterol or triglyceride levels in a patient. As cholesterol increases, waxy yellow or white bumps will begin to form along the Achilles tendon near the back of the heel. Though these bumps are not dangerous to a patient’s health they are often found to be uncomfortable when walking and indicate problems with the health of a person’s heart. Without proper treatment, patients will often experience additional conditions like hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, hypertriglyceridemia, and even pancreatitis. Treatments for this condition focus on proper dieting and the use of lipid-reducing agents. With proper medical care, this condition can take anywhere from a few weeks to a year to recover from.
Achilles Care in Medford, OR
Many Achilles problems can develop into debilitating conditions that restrict your way of life. For a professional diagnosis of your ankle pains, contact our Medford office at (541) 776-3338 schedule an appointment online with Dr. Evan Merrill to begin treatment as soon as possible.