Achilles Tendon Treatments and Surgery in Scottsdale, AZ

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, we frequently treat patients who are experiencing pain and discomfort due to Achilles tendonitis. This common condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon—the thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. The Achilles tendon is essential for everyday activities such as walking, running, and jumping, as it allows you to lift your heel off the ground.

Achilles tendonitis often develops from repetitive stress or overuse, and we commonly see it in individuals who are runners, athletes, or those who have recently increased their physical activity. However, anyone can be affected, especially if proper conditioning or footwear is lacking.

Symptoms to Watch For:

– Pain or aching along the back of your leg or just above your heel, especially after activity
– Morning stiffness or tenderness that improves with movement
– Swelling, warmth, or thickening along the tendon
– Limited ankle flexibility and discomfort when standing on tiptoe or climbing stairs

If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can worsen and may eventually lead to a tendon rupture—a serious injury requiring more intensive treatment.

We prioritize non-surgical treatment options for Achilles tendon issues whenever possible. Our goal is to relieve your pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing while restoring strength and flexibility to your ankle.

Our specialists will first assess your activity level and recommend modifications to avoid movements that worsen your symptoms. In some cases, we may advise temporarily pausing high-impact sports or activities to facilitate recovery.

We often recommend applying ice packs to the affected area several times a day to decrease swelling and discomfort. Over-the-counter medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may also be suggested to manage pain and inflammation.

Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians work closely with experienced physical therapists who can design a rehabilitation plan tailored to your specific Achilles tendon condition. This typically includes stretching and strengthening exercises, with a special focus on eccentric exercises—proven to be highly effective for chronic Achilles tendinopathy.

We may suggest custom orthotics, heel lifts, or supportive footwear to reduce strain on your Achilles tendon. For more severe cases, a brace or walking boot may be provided to immobilize the ankle and support healing.

Our clinic offers additional treatments such as therapeutic ultrasound, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, and deep tissue massage. These modalities can enhance blood flow and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

For patients with persistent Achilles tendon problems, our physicians may discuss platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or other biologic therapies. While research is ongoing, some patients benefit from these advanced treatments. Our team will also assess for underlying factors, such as biomechanical issues or improper training techniques, that could contribute to your Achilles tendon symptoms. Addressing these factors is crucial to preventing recurrence.

We specialize in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendon injuries with the most advanced and effective methods available. Surgery for an Achilles tendon injury is typically considered when the tendon has suffered a complete rupture—meaning it is fully torn and the ends are no longer connected. In such cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to reattach the torn ends and restore normal function to your leg and ankle.

Our experienced team may also recommend surgery for certain partial tears, especially if your injury does not respond to conservative treatments like rest, immobilization, or physical therapy. Additionally, surgery may be indicated if there is significant separation between the ends of the tendon, making it unlikely that the tendon will heal properly on its own.

Achilles tendon surgery may also be considered for active individuals or athletes who require a quicker or more reliable return to high levels of activity. Chronic Achilles tendon injuries that have not improved with non-surgical management, or cases involving extensive tendon degeneration and weakness, can also benefit from surgical treatment.

If you have experienced a significant loss of function, ongoing pain, or if your tendon is not healing after several months of conservative care, our board-certified foot and ankle specialists will discuss surgical options tailored to your unique needs. The decision to proceed with surgery depends on several factors, including your age, activity level, the severity and type of injury, and your overall health status.

We understand that recovering from Achilles tendon surgery is a significant journey that requires expert care and individualized attention. Our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through each stage of recovery, ensuring the best possible outcome for your foot and ankle health.

Recovery timelines can vary depending on factors like your age, overall health, the severity of your tendon injury, and the specific surgical technique used. Typically, the initial two weeks after surgery involve immobilizing your leg in a cast or boot to protect the healing tendon. During this period, you’ll need to keep weight off your affected leg, often using crutches or a walker provided by our office.

Between two and six weeks post-surgery, your specialist will assess your progress and may allow you to begin gentle weight-bearing activities, often transitioning to a walking boot. Our physical therapy partners will work closely with you to restore the range of motion and gradually build strength and flexibility in your ankle.

By six to twelve weeks, most patients can walk with a boot and start more active rehabilitation exercises. Our physicians will provide a personalized recovery plan and monitor your healing with regular follow-up appointments.

Full recovery can take four to six months, and in some cases, up to a year to return to high-impact sports or demanding activities. We strongly advise that you only resume these activities after consulting your provider to reduce the risk of re-injury.

Dr. Nathan Plaskey offers targeted therapies to treat Achilles tendon injuries caused by overuse, trauma, or degeneration. His approach includes strengthening programs, tendon-loading exercises, and minimally invasive surgical options when necessary. Dr. Plaskey prioritizes patient comfort and long-term tendon health in every stage of care.

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, your recovery is our top priority. Following your surgeon’s and physical therapist’s instructions closely is essential for optimal healing. We encourage open communication—please share your goals and any concerns with our team during your follow-up visits so we can adjust your care plan as needed.

If you have questions about Achilles tendon surgery or your recovery process, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our compassionate staff is here to support you every step of the way. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11390 E. Via Linda, Ste 102, Scottsdale, AZ 85259. We serve patients from Scottsdale AZ, Fountain Hills AZ, Paradise Valley AZ, Carefree AZ, Rio Verde AZ, and surrounding areas.