Achilles Tendonitis Treatment

Achilles tendonitis is a painful and often debilitating inflammation or injury of the Achilles tendon. This large tendon is an extension of the two calf muscles; it runs down the back of the lower leg and attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus). The Achilles tendon connects the strong leg muscles to the foot and gives you the ability to rise up on your toes, which allows you to walk. Unfortunately, Achilles tendonitis can make walking almost impossible.

There are two phases of the condition. Fasciitis is inflammation. Inflammation alone can be treated with numerous conservative treatments. Anything that addresses rest and inflammation can be
helpful. While typically steroid injections are avoided in the Achilles, the physician may utilize strapping, taping, orthotics, or lasers. If the condition has moved on to phase 2, the tissue is damaged (microtearing), and needs to be repaired. For Phase 2 or chronic Achilles tendinitis (tendinosis), high energy ESWT with the Dornier Epos Ultra is the only FDA approved device proven to create this repair without surgery.

The effects of ESWT are best documented in areas of changes in tissue density, such as those where a tendon attaches to a bone (enthesiopathies) and where a bone attaches to a ligament (desmopathies). For this reason, it is very effective for painful connective tissue in the foot and heels. Additionally, ESWT gives new hope by relieving pain, eliminating the risk factors associated with surgery and allowing people to resume their normal lives.

Contact us to find out if ESWT is right for you.

Is ESWT Right For You?

Your condition is unique. We are here to help you find out if ESWT is right for you.

Contact us for a no pressure review of your case, an information packet, and an informational video.

I thought the pain would never go away but it has. I have resumed 30 minutes on the elliptical, 45 minute walks outside, short hikes, walking 5 miles in San Juan to sightsee (cruise in March), and pain free yoga. 0 out of 10 pain Miracle!!

- Karen D., Audubon, NJ

You may have Achilles tendonitis if you experience:

  • Pain along the back of the heel when you first walk in the morning
  • Pain along the back of the heel after sitting for a long period
  • Pain that subsides and then returns after rest or athletic activities
  • A persistent ache, shooting pain, burning pain or even severe piercing foot pain
  • Pain when you press the site where the tendon meets the heel bone
Epos shock wave therapy foot bw