How is Achilles tendinitis treated?

How is Achilles tendinitis treated?

Your provider will first recommend nonsurgical treatment. It may take a few months for the pain to get better — especially if you’ve already had symptoms for a few months.

Nonsurgical treatment methods include:

RICE method:

• Rest: Stop doing activities that stress your tendon. Switch to low-impact activities, such as swimming, that put less stress on the Achilles tendon.
• Ice: Put ice on your tendon for up to 20 minutes, as needed throughout the day.
• Compression: Compress, or put pressure on, the tendon using an athletic wrap or surgical tape.
• Elevation: To reduce swelling, lie down and raise your foot on pillows so it’s above your heart.

Protect your tendon. Avoid walking up steep inclines or overstretching the tendon, such as by standing on a ladder rung. Wear:

• Supportive shoes, heel lifts or custom orthotics. Don’t walk barefoot.
• Splint at night to help the Achilles tendon stay stretched while you sleep.
• Walking boot or walking cast if the pain is severe.

Other nonsurgical treatments that can help:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. Don’t take the medication for more than one month without talking to your provider.
• Exercises you can do at home, such as calf stretches.
• Physical therapy, which uses strengthening exercises, massage, stretching and running re-education to help you feel better and regain your strength.
• Shockwave therapy, which uses strong sound waves to reduce pain and promote healing.