Tendon & Ankle Conditions
Comprehensive Care for Foot and Ankle Injuries
Your tendons and ankle ligaments play a crucial role in mobility, stability, and everyday function. At Mitchell Wachtel D.P.M., we provide expert evaluation and treatment for tendonitis, ankle sprains, Achilles injuries, and related conditions. Early care can restore strength, reduce pain, and prevent long-term complications.
Tendonitis: Restoring Function and Mobility
Tendons act like ropes that connect muscles to bones, allowing movement and stability. In the foot and ankle, repetitive strain, overuse, or injury can inflame these tissues, resulting in tendonitis.
Symptoms often include aching pain during activity, swelling, tenderness, and weakness. Left untreated, tendonitis can lead to persistent discomfort and complications like flatfoot or recurrent ankle injuries.
Dr. Wachtel evaluates your condition with a thorough exam and diagnostic imaging if needed, then develops a personalized treatment plan. Conservative therapy may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice and compression
- Anti-inflammatory medications (as recommended)
- Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
- Custom orthotics or footwear adjustments
In rare cases, surgery may be considered if conservative methods are insufficient. Early intervention ensures faster recovery and long-term foot health.
Ankle Sprains: Prevention and Recovery
An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments stretch or tear, often from stepping on uneven surfaces or sudden twisting motions. Sprains range from mild overstretching to complete tears and can happen to anyone, not just athletes.
Immediate care is critical to avoid chronic instability. Treatment may include:
- Protective bracing and immobilization
- Ice, elevation, and compression to reduce swelling
- Short-term rest and limited weight-bearing
- Physical therapy and strength exercises for rehabilitation
Proper evaluation by Dr. Wachtel ensures no bones are broken and helps prevent long-term problems such as repeated sprains or chronic ankle instability.
Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care
Dr. Wachtel combines experience with state-of-the-art diagnostics to address all tendon and ankle conditions, helping you regain mobility and reduce pain. Whether it’s Achilles tendonitis, peroneal injuries, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, or ankle sprains, our offices in North Andover, Haverhill, and Lowell, MA provide expert, patient-focused care.
Don’t let tendon or ankle problems limit your activity. Call 978-794-8406 today or use our online form to schedule a consultation. Let us help restore your feet and ankles to full strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tendonitis is usually caused by repetitive strain, overuse, or sudden injury. It can affect the Achilles, peroneal, posterior tibial, or other tendons in the lower leg and foot.
Common signs include pain during activity, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and weakness. Pain often improves with rest but may worsen if left untreated.
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are recommended. Avoid putting weight on the injured foot and seek evaluation by a podiatrist to rule out fractures and prevent long-term issues.
Yes. Most cases respond well to conservative treatments including rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, supportive bracing, and custom orthotics. Surgery is only recommended if these methods fail.
Recovery varies depending on the injury’s severity and your adherence to treatment. Mild sprains or tendonitis may improve in a few weeks, while severe injuries may require several months and rehabilitation.
Wear supportive, properly fitting shoes, stretch and strengthen lower leg muscles regularly, warm up before physical activity, and / or avoid uneven surfaces when possible.