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What Causes Soreness And Swelling In The Achilles Tendon?
Question: My right achilises tendon is sore and swollen. It has been about a week. I skied 10 days ago, felt no pain, but has been sore for about a week now. Once it loosens up, I seem to be ok. Stiff in the am, and tender at night.
Brief Answer:
P.R.I.C.E-MM- protect, rest, ice, compression, elevation, medication.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Damage to the Achilles can result in superficial injury or it can cause a tear in the tendon.
Since there was no history of direct or severe trauma to the Achilles, then a complete tear or significant tear is not likely.
The main aspects of superficial injury would be P.R.I.C.E--MM. This stands for P- protection from further injury
R- rest- it would be important to avoid placing too much weight on the ankle. Reduce activity
I- this is the ice that you are doing. It is done in the initial stage of injury then some persons move onto warm therapy but you can continue the ice if you wish.
It would be best to do either 2 to 3 times a day for a better effect
C- compression bandage to reduce the swelling
E- elevation of the leg- this helps with swelling and pain
M-medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen or cataflam to reduce the inflammation in the area. This would help with pain and swelling
M- modalities. This is used with long term or more severe injuries and refers to physiotherapy
If there is no improvement you should see your doctor for assessment.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician
P.R.I.C.E-MM- protect, rest, ice, compression, elevation, medication.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Damage to the Achilles can result in superficial injury or it can cause a tear in the tendon.
Since there was no history of direct or severe trauma to the Achilles, then a complete tear or significant tear is not likely.
The main aspects of superficial injury would be P.R.I.C.E--MM. This stands for P- protection from further injury
R- rest- it would be important to avoid placing too much weight on the ankle. Reduce activity
I- this is the ice that you are doing. It is done in the initial stage of injury then some persons move onto warm therapy but you can continue the ice if you wish.
It would be best to do either 2 to 3 times a day for a better effect
C- compression bandage to reduce the swelling
E- elevation of the leg- this helps with swelling and pain
M-medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen or cataflam to reduce the inflammation in the area. This would help with pain and swelling
M- modalities. This is used with long term or more severe injuries and refers to physiotherapy
If there is no improvement you should see your doctor for assessment.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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