Tendon & Joint Pain Treatment in Thousand Oaks
Pain in the tendons or joints of the feet and ankles is a common problem that most people, especially athletes and active adults, will experience at some point. The two primary causes are arthritis, which wears away the cartilage between joints, and tendinitis, which inflames the tendons that power movement. At Performance Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists in Thousand Oaks, CA go beyond temporary fixes to find long-term solutions for tendon and joint pain.
Request an AppointmentWhat You Should Know About Tendinitis
Exercise is a great way to strengthen your muscles, but repeatedly straining the same muscles and tendons without adequate rest can actually weaken them. When tendons become overworked, they become inflamed, a condition called tendinitis. If you experience pain and swelling in your ankle or heel after exercise, tendinitis may be the cause.
Common types of tendinitis in the foot and ankle include:
- Achilles tendinitis – Pain at the back of the ankle and heel that flares up when walking or running, often caused by overuse or training too frequently
- Posterior tibial tendinitis – Pain along the inside of the ankle and arch that can lead to flat feet if untreated
- Peroneal tendinitis – Pain along the outside of the ankle, often associated with ankle instability
- Extensor tendinitis – Pain on the top of the foot, frequently caused by tight shoes or lacing
Joint Pain in the Feet and Ankles
Joint pain is most often caused by arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and posttraumatic arthritis following an injury. Other causes include gout, bursitis, joint instability, and deformities such as bunions and hammertoes. Joint pain is often accompanied by stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
Diagnosing Tendon and Joint Pain
Your podiatrist will examine your foot and ankle, assess your gait and range of motion, and review your activity level and medical history. In-office digital x-ray and diagnostic ultrasound allow us to evaluate tendon tears, inflammation, and joint damage during your visit.
Tendon and Joint Pain Treatment Options
Mild tendinitis often improves with rest and ice, along with a temporary break from the activity that caused it. Your podiatrist can advise you on when to safely resume activity and recommend exercises to prevent future injuries. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may also include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Bracing, walking boots, or heel lifts
- Custom orthotics to reduce strain on tendons and joints
- MLS laser therapy to decrease pain and inflammation
- PRP injections to stimulate healing in chronic tendon injuries
- Supartz injections for arthritic joint pain
- Physical therapy for strength and flexibility
When tendons are severely damaged or joints are badly worn, our board-certified surgeons offer foot and ankle surgery to repair and restore function.
We know foot and ankle pain makes daily life difficult. Call (805) 273-1415 to schedule an appointment with Performance Foot & Ankle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tendon and Joint Pain
How can I tell if my foot or ankle pain needs professional attention?
Seek care if you have severe pain that does not improve with rest, swelling, redness or warmth, inability to bear weight, visible deformity, numbness or tingling, or pain lasting several weeks.
What lifestyle changes can prevent foot and ankle pain?
Wear supportive shoes, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly with low-impact activities, stretch daily, increase activity gradually, keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid pushing through pain.
How long does Achilles tendinitis take to heal?
Mild cases often improve in a few weeks with rest and treatment, while chronic Achilles tendinitis can take several months. Early treatment usually leads to faster recovery.
Can tendinitis lead to a tendon rupture?
Yes. Untreated or repeatedly strained tendons can weaken and tear. Sudden sharp pain at the back of the ankle, often with a popping sensation, should be evaluated immediately.
Should I use ice or heat for tendon pain?
Ice is usually best for new or flaring tendon pain because it reduces inflammation. Heat may help loosen stiff muscles before activity in chronic cases. Your podiatrist can advise you.
Can PRP help chronic tendon pain?
PRP therapy may help chronic tendon injuries by delivering concentrated growth factors from your own blood to stimulate healing in the damaged tissue.
Do I need surgery for tendon or joint pain?
Most tendon and joint pain improves with conservative care. Surgery is typically reserved for torn tendons, severe arthritis, or cases that do not respond to other treatments.