SOMA Living November 2023

FROM THE DOCTOR

ACHILLES TENDONITIS

The Achilles tendon is vital for ankle motion and can develop tendinitis when inflamed or injured. It’s the body’s largest tendon, connecting calf muscles to the heel bone, used for walking, running, climbing stairs, jumping, and standing on tiptoes. Overuse can lead to tendinitis, affecting both athletes and everyday individuals. Achilles tendinitis involves acute inflammation causing swelling, pain, or irritation. Terms like tendinitis, tendinosis, and tendinopathy describe the same condition. Distinguish it from an Achilles rupture, where the tendon separates or tears. Two types exist: non-insertional and insertional. Non-insertional tendinitis affects the middle fibers, leading to swelling, thickening, and tiny tears. It commonly affects younger, active individuals, especially runners. Insertional tendinitis occurs where the tendon attaches to the heel bone, often forming bone spurs. It can occur at any activity level but is prevalent in runners due to calf muscle tightness stressing the tendon. Treatment involves evaluation by a PT or MD. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, and thickening, worsened by shoes. Treatments include surgical or non-surgical options. Non-surgical methods include rest, PT to reduce inflammation using ice and limiting activities, and stretching programs. Modalities like cold laser and ultrasound decrease inflammation and speed healing. Strengthening exercises prevent reinjury. Cortisone injections may be necessary. Regular communication with therapists and doctors is vital to track progress.

South Orange Rehabilitation & Wellness We provide professional, individualized and effective physical therapy. Our health and wellness interventions promote healthy living and enhanced quality of life for all athletes and patients.

Specializing in: • Post Surgical Knee & Shoulder • Spinal Decompression for Herniated and Bulging Discs • Cold Laser to Increase Healing

SouthOrangeRehab.com (973) 761-0077 177 Valley Street, South Orange, New Jersey 07079

email us at AtlanticConcepts@hotmail.com to schedule a free estimate www.atlantic-concepts.com (386) 344-3894 Atlantic Concepts is a family owned business that has been serving the SOMA community for over 10 years. Its founder, Eddie Cevallos and family are proud residents of Maplewood. Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, additions, etc, Atlantic Concepts would love to hear your ideas for your projects. Please give us a call for a free estimate.

Dr. Daniel Roig South Orange Rehab Wellness SouthOrangeRehab.com 973-761-0077

NOVEMBER 2023 | SOMA LIVING 17

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