Achilles Tendinitis vs Plantar Fasciitis

Q: How Are Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis Treated?

The standard treatment options for Achilles tendinitis are getting rest, applying ice to the foot/feet, and taking anti-inflammatory to manage pain and swelling. Physical therapy is important in the treatment plan. It focuses on strengthening the tendon and improving flexibility to prevent further injury. For plantar fasciitis, some of the treatment methods include performing stretch exercises, using orthotics and supportive footwear, and sleeping with night splints. Physical therapy is also integral in treating plantar fasciitis, as it helps to improve foot mechanics and reduce pain through special exercises and techniques. Therapists use calf stretches and eccentric strengthening for Achilles tendinitis, and plantar fascia stretches and foot exercises for plantar fasciitis. Techniques like ultrasound therapy, manual therapy, and custom orthotics lower pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence.

Heel pain has many causes and can severely disrupt daily activities and quality of life. Two common culprits behind heel pain are Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis.

These conditions are treatable by a physical therapist, but first you need a professional diagnosis. Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment through physical therapy are important for managing problems like Achilles tendinitis vs. plantar fasciitis. It ensures you get personal care that addresses the root causes of your heel pain and promotes lasting recovery.

What Are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis?

Achilles tendinitis typically presents with the following symptoms:

Dull pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon and heel
Pain and stiffness symptoms in the morning or after periods of inactivity
Swelling and tenderness around the tendon
Discomfort that tends to worsen with physical activity

Plantar Fasciitis typically causes:

Sharp heel pain when you use your foot
Pain after sleeping or long periods of rest from sitting
Tenderness that extends to the foot arch, making walking uncomfortable
Symptoms that get better with movement but worsen with lengthy activity

Location and pattern-wise, Achilles tendinitis affects the back of the heel and Achilles tendon with dull, aching pain. Plantar fasciitis mainly affects the bottom of the heel and arch with sharp pain.

What Causes Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis?

Tendinitis of the Achilles results from overuse and repetitive stress on the tendon. This is its primary cause. Sudden increases in physical activity or intensity can also contribute to the problem. That’s particularly true when the calf muscles are tight, as tight calves put extra strain on the tendon.

With plantar fasciitis, it often develops due to overpronation, where the arch of the foot rolls too far inward. People with flat feet or high arches are more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. Wearing unsupportive footwear like stilettos, high heels, and flip-flops can cause and worsen the condition.

Common risk factors for Achilles tendinitis vs. plantar fasciitis include:

Age, with middle-aged persons being more prone
High activity levels (e.g., sports and athletics)
Abnormal foot biomechanics

How Are Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis Treated?

The standard treatment options for Achilles tendinitis are:

Getting rest
Applying ice to the foot/feet
Taking anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling

Physical therapy is important in the treatment plan. It focuses on strengthening the tendon and improving flexibility to prevent further injury.

For plantar fasciitis, here are some of the treatment methods:

Performing stretch exercises
Using orthotics and supportive footwear
Sleeping with night splints

Physical therapy is also integral in treating plantar fasciitis, as it helps to improve foot mechanics and reduce pain through special exercises and techniques.

Therapists use calf stretches and eccentric strengthening for Achilles tendinitis, and plantar fascia stretches and foot exercises for plantar fasciitis. Techniques like ultrasound therapy, manual therapy, and custom orthotics lower pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence.

How Can Physical Therapy Help with Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis?

At JAG Physical Therapy, our expert physical therapists create treatment plans. These custom plans are specific to the needs of patients with Achilles tendinitis vs. plantar fasciitis.

We use different exercises and modalities to relieve pain and promote healing. Our approach includes stretching and exercising to improve strength and flexibility and support the foot, as well as hands-on techniques to decrease pain and increase mobility. Additionally, we educate patients.

The benefits of professional guidance from JAG PT go further than immediate pain relief. Our treatment approach ensures that patients not only recover from Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis but also advance their overall foot and ankle health so problems don’t return.

Schedule Your Consultation with JAG Physical Therapy for Expert Heel Pain Treatment

If you’re struggling with heel pain from Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis, JAG Physical Therapy is here to help. Our team of experts specializes in diagnosing and treating these conditions.

JAG PT tailors personal treatment plans and uses advanced therapy techniques for effective pain relief and recovery. These therapies promote healing and prevent future issues.

Don’t let heel pain hold you back. Book an appointment with JAG Physical Therapy today for comprehensive evaluation and treatment. Your journey to living without pain starts with the professional and friendly care our specialists provide.