Tendinitis
Tendinitis can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling along a tendon in the foot or ankle, often becoming more noticeable with movement or repeated activity.
Common Symptoms of Tendinitis
Tendinitis occurs when a tendon becomes irritated, often after repeated stress or a change in activity. Symptoms can vary depending on which tendon is affected.
- Pain or tenderness along a tendon
- Swelling or warmth around the foot or ankle
- Stiffness after rest or first thing in the morning
- Pain that increases with walking, exercise, or repeated activity
- Reduced comfort or strength during certain movements
- Tenderness when pressure is applied to the affected area
What Causes Tendinitis?
Tendon irritation often develops when the tissue is exposed to more stress than it can comfortably manage. Several factors may contribute.
- Repetitive activity or overuse
- A sudden increase in exercise or activity
- Foot structure and mechanics
- Tight muscles or limited flexibility
- Footwear that does not provide enough support
- Previous injury or repeated strain
How We Evaluate Tendon Pain
Dr. Forman assesses tendon tenderness, range of motion, strength, and foot mechanics to identify which tendon is involved and what treatment may be appropriate.
Pain Location
Which tendon or area of the foot or ankle is tender and where symptoms are most noticeable.
Movement & Activity
Which movements, exercises, or daily activities place stress on the painful area.
Foot Mechanics
How alignment, flexibility, and the way you walk may be affecting the tendon.
Tendinitis Treatment Options
Treatment depends on which tendon is affected, what may be causing the irritation, and how long symptoms have been present.
Non-Surgical Tendinitis Treatment
For many patients, treatment begins by reducing stress on the affected tendon and addressing factors that may be contributing to the irritation.
The goal is to reduce strain on the tendon and allow activity to be reintroduced appropriately as symptoms improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Foot and ankle tendinitis may cause pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness, or discomfort that becomes worse with movement or repeated activity. Symptoms vary depending on which tendon is affected.
Tendinitis can develop from repetitive stress, overuse, a sudden increase in activity, previous injury, limited flexibility, footwear, or foot mechanics that place added strain on a tendon.
Yes. Tendinitis treatment commonly begins with non-surgical options such as activity modification, supportive footwear, stretching, orthotics when appropriate, and other strategies designed to reduce stress on the affected tendon.
Recovery from tendinitis varies depending on the tendon involved, how long symptoms have been present, activity level, and the severity of the irritation. Some cases improve with activity changes and appropriate care, while persistent tendon pain may require additional treatment.
Consider seeing a podiatrist if tendon pain persists, keeps returning, becomes worse with activity, or begins to interfere with walking, exercise, or everyday movement. An evaluation can help identify which tendon is involved and what may be causing the problem.
Put Your Feet First provides evaluation and treatment for foot and ankle tendinitis in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr. Mark Forman can determine which tendon may be affected and recommend treatment based on the cause, severity, and individual symptoms.
Ongoing Foot or Ankle Tendon Pain?
Persistent tendon pain can make walking and activity uncomfortable. Dr. Forman can evaluate what may be causing it and discuss your treatment options.