Don't Get Sidelined Again: 5 Factors That Boost Your Risk of Achilles Tendonitis Recurrence

Now that you’ve gotten over Achilles tendonitis, you don’t want it to return. Here are a few factors that increase your chances of recurrence so you know what to avoid.

Achilles tendonitis is a pain — literally.

Not only does it hurt your lifestyle, but it just plain hurts. Your Achilles tendon stretches from your heel to the top of your calf — it’s the longest tendon in the body.

If your Achilles tendon becomes inflamed or injured, simple tasks like walking and running become much more difficult. You’re likely to experience pain in the back of your heel, as well as stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth along the tendon.

Our team at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, led by Dr. Pedro Cosculluela, can treat your tendonitis with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and a physical therapy regimen so that you can enjoy a full recovery.

However, once you’ve had Achilles tendonitis, you’re more likely to get it again unless you’re careful. Here are five factors that boost your risk of Achilles tendonitis recurrence.

1. Gaining weight

Gaining weight increases the likelihood that your Achilles tendonitis returns. The more pounds you carry, the more stress your lower body has to deal with, forcing your tendons to do more work. To avoid this, eat healthy, including lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains.

2. Wearing the wrong shoes

If your shoes don’t fit correctly or don’t offer enough support, you increase your risk of recurrence. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes that give your arch and heel enough support to keep stress off your tendon. Also, choose shoes that fit the activity you’re doing.

3. Stressing your feet

Exercising too much or dramatically increasing the amount or intensity of your activities can lead to Achilles tendonitis. Don’t make abrupt changes to your workout routines. Increase what you’re doing gradually to protect your body.

4. Skipping stretches and workouts

Stretching (both daily and before exercise or other activities) helps increase your flexibility and decrease the strain on your muscles and tendons. We also recommend strengthening your leg muscles through regular workouts. Skip these two things, and your risk of tendonitis rises.

5. Taking certain medications

Some antibiotics can lead to Achilles tendonitis. If you’re given a prescription for an antibiotic, ask your doctor if it might increase your chances of an Achilles tendonitis flare-up. If the answer is yes, ask them to prescribe another antibiotic.

If you’re dealing with Achilles tendonitis and need treatment, our team at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute is ready to help. Call our office in Austin or Bee Cave, Texas, to schedule a consultation or request your appointment online today.