Tendonitis Symptoms
Common signs of foot and ankle tendonitis include:
- Pain and tenderness along the tendon, worse with activity
- Pain that eases with rest but returns when you’re active
- Swelling around the tendon
- Morning stiffness that loosens up as you move
- A thickened or “lumpy” feeling along the tendon
- Weakness when pushing off or standing on tiptoe
How we treat it
Treatment has two goals: calm the irritated tendon, then rebuild it stronger. We start conservatively — rest and activity modification, icing, supportive footwear or bracing to take strain off the tendon, and custom orthotics when foot mechanics are contributing to the problem. A guided stretching and strengthening program is key: tendons respond well to the right kind of progressive loading.
For tendonitis that persists despite good conservative care, we offer advanced in-office options such as shockwave therapy and laser therapy, which encourage healing in stubborn tendon tissue, as well as injections when appropriate. Throughout, we look for and address the root cause — footwear, training errors, or biomechanics — because treating only the pain invites it back.
When to see a doctor
- A sudden “pop” with severe pain — a possible rupture needs urgent care
- Swelling that doesn’t improve with rest
- Pain that’s changing the way you walk
- Weakness in the foot or ankle
- No improvement after a couple of weeks of rest and home care
Achy tendons don’t have to slow you down. Call Jacksonville Foot & Ankle Clinic at (904) 731-1711 or book your appointment online — we look forward to caring for you and getting you back on your feet.
Learn more about tendonitis from Mayo Clinic.