Achilles Tendon Injuries

Achilles Tendon: Anatomy, Injuries, and Treatment

The Achilles tendon is one of the largest tendons in the human body, stretching from the two main calf muscles (the gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (the calcaneus). The most common injuries to occur in the Achilles tendon include rupture of the tendon, tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon), and tendinosis (degeneration of the tendon).

One of the most injured tendons, an Achilles tendon injury may be caused by overuse, increased stress from shoes (specifically high heels), lack of stretching before exercise, or upping physical activity too quickly.

Symptoms of tendinitis may include burning pain and/or tenderness during any sort of physical activity. This condition could potentially become chronic with lack of rest and treatment. Tendinosis may also be produced from overuse or stress of the tendon, but unlike tendonitis, tendinosis is chronic and is sometimes irreversible.

Constant stress on the Achilles tendon may produce micro-tears and depletion of the collagen tissue. The condition is very painful and may lower the amount of strength and mobility within the tendon. A rupture of the tendon may occur due to overuse or injury.

The most common way to get an Achilles tendon injury is when it tears as the calf contracts while an outside force is stretching it. Symptoms may include severe pain or a potential popping sound during the injury. Swelling and the inability to point one's toes or properly stand may occur as well.

To treat tendinitis and tendinosis, most physicians recommend ice, rest, and possibly over-the-counter pain relievers. A popular healing technique involves heel lifts: by elevating the heal, stress is lessened on the Achilles tendon.

Customer Feedback

At Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we take great pride in the positive feedback we receive from our patients. Their satisfaction is our top priority. And we strive to exceed their expectations with every interaction. Here are a few testimonials from our valued patients:

I recently had Achilles tendon surgery with Doctor DiNucci at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, and I’m thrilled with the results. The entire staff was professional, and Doctor DiNucci’s expertise made all the difference.

Aiden Anderson

July 2024

I was very apprehensive about surgery after I tore my Achilles tendon. Dr. DiNucci from the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona put my fears to rest. His confidence and clear explanations put me at ease with the whole process. The surgery went smoothly, and the professional personnel treated me well in recovery. Now I am back to my active lifestyle; thanks to Dr. DiNucci and his team!

Betty Jo Martinez

April 2023

Achilles tendon surgery is a major surgery, but it was as smooth as it could get with Dr. DiNucci at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona. Everything went first class from consultation to post-operative care. The professional staff was comforting and reassuring. They answered all my questions, walked me through everything, step by step. Dr. DiNucci certainly has his touch in the operating theater. I am on my way to full recovery now and couldn't ask for anything more. Many thanks, Doctor Dinucci and team!

Betty Nelson

September 2023

When I was told I needed Achilles tendon surgery, I was understandably nervous. However, my experience with Doctor DiNucci at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona has been nothing short of exceptional. From my first consultation, Doctor DiNucci took the time to thoroughly explain the surgery, recovery process, and what to expect. His depth of knowledge and approachable manner made me feel confident in my decision to proceed. The day of the surgery, everything was handled with the utmost professionalism. The staff at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona were warm and welcoming, making the whole process as stress-free as possible. I appreciated how attentive everyone was, ensuring I was comfortable and informed every step of the way. Post-surgery, the care didn’t stop. The follow-up appointments were timely, and Doctor DiNucci was always available to answer my questions, no matter how small. The professional staff were equally supportive, guiding me through my rehabilitation and providing tips to aid in my recovery.

Jennifer Rodriguez

October 2023

I had my Achilles tendon surgery with Dr. DiNucci at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona. From start to finish, this was a really great experience. He explained the procedure to me in such a way that I felt very comfortable and informed. They followed up with me after surgery to make sure everything was going well and that I had everything I needed during recovery. The professionalism among the staff was really good. I'm back to my activities like normal, feeling better than ever!