6 Helpful Options To Deal with Tendonitis

Inflamed or irritated tendons spell trouble, bringing with them the symptoms of tendonitis: persistent pain and a side of discomfort. It often affects the tendons around the foot and ankle due to the constant stress they endure.

Dr. Eric Gilbertson, DPM, FACFAS, a double-board-certified podiatrist at Renew Foot & Ankle, LLC, in Grand Rapids and Bigfork, Minnesota, offers the following tips for tendonitis.

1. Rest and modify activities

Rest is crucial for healing tendonitis. Stop any aggravating activities to prevent further inflammation and injury. This doesn't mean complete inactivity or bed rest, but resting tendonitis involves modifying your routine to avoid stress on the affected area. 

For example, if you are an avid runner, consider switching to low-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling, which place less strain on your foot and ankle tendons.

2. Apply ice and heat therapy

Ice therapy effectively reduces inflammation and numbing pain associated with tendonitis. Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times daily, especially after activities that exacerbate your symptoms. 

Heat therapy can be beneficial during the later stages of healing. Soak up the relief: applying a warm compress opens up the blood vessels, melting away muscle tension and stiffness and improving flexibility.

3. Use supportive footwear and orthotics

Wearing supportive shoes can make a significant difference in managing tendonitis. Choose footwear with good arch support and cushioning to reduce strain on your tendons. If pressure points cause pain, orthotic inserts will redesign how your feet take each step, offloading pressure and returning your walk to a comfortable, pain-free zone. 

Imagine slipping into shoes that cradle your feet in customized comfort - that's what expertly customized orthotics can deliver.

4. Engage in physical therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of tendonitis treatment. A well-crafted exercise program designed by a physical therapist can stabilize the affected tendon, boost flexibility, and accelerate healing. Stretching exercises, in particular, can help maintain or restore the range of motion in your foot and ankle. 

Struggling with pain and inflammation? Your therapist is equipped to bring relief through a trio of potent therapies: ultrasound, massage, and electrical stimulation. Each is carefully calibrated to accelerate healing and get you moving again.

5. Take anti-inflammatory medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with tendonitis. These medications are available over the counter, but you must use them as directed and discuss any underlying medical conditions or other medications before using them.

When severe symptoms strike, Dr. Gilbertson might suggest a corticosteroid injection to bring you sustained relief from the discomfort.

6. Consider platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

PRP therapy is an innovative treatment option that uses your body's healing properties to treat tendonitis. A small blood sample is collected, processed to enrich the platelets, and then strategically injected into the affected tendon. 

Platelets are the unsung heroes of wound healing, injecting a concentrated dose of growth factors that repair damaged tissue and relax inflamed areas. PRP therapy gets mixed results in studies regarding efficacy but shows potential for improving patient outcomes. 

When to schedule an appointment for tendonitis

While these options can effectively manage most instances of tendonitis, it's crucial to know when to seek professional help. If your symptoms persist despite self-care measures or you experience severe pain, swelling, or difficulty moving the affected area, call the office or schedule an appointment online. 

With Dr. Gilbertson's expert evaluation, you can expect a personalized plan that might include physical therapy, medication, or surgery if required.