St. Lukes Elks Rehab Blog

Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon. Tendinitis of the ankle can involve the Achilles tendon, the posterior tibial tendon, or the peroneal tendon. This condition usually results from trauma but can result from underlying inflammatory diseases or illnesses such as reactive arthritis (formerly called Reiter’s syndrome), rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. All forms of tendinitis cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the tendon area involved. The onset may be rapid, such as with an athletic injury.  Immediate treatment involves immobilizing the area, elevation, and limiting weight-bearing, applying ice, and using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to decrease inflammation.  NSAIDs such as naproxen (Naprosyn) or ketoprofen (Orudis) are commonly used for this purpose.  More severe inflammation can require orthopedic casting. Athletic participation should be limited when the tendon is still inflamed, as there is a significant risk of rupturing or tearing the tendon, especially in the Achilles area, with continued athletic activity. A rupture of the Achilles tendon more frequently occurs in patients who have had previous Achilles inflammation. When the Achilles tendon ruptures, it usually requires orthopedic surgical repair.

Filed under: Foot & Ankle, Sports & Injuries