The Achilles Tendon is largest tendon in the human body and carries an incredible amount of force with every step.  It is responsible for providing the propulsive force to the heel bone to trigger the heel lift during your walking (gait) cycle.  Proper Achilles Tendon function is imperative to overall foot and ankle health.   Millions of people suffer from various foot ankle and problems that are linked primarily to a short Achilles Tendon.  We term this condition as an “Equinus,” or a limitation of ankle joint dorsiflexion (upward motion).   Most people with an equinus will not have symptoms until they are in their thirties besides general foot fatigue, which can present in people as young as 8 years old.  Apart from “tired feet,” many will also have Achilles Tendon pain, calf tightness, arch and inner ankle pain.   Long term secondary foot issues arising from an equinus include plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammer toes, heel spurs and arthritic joints.  

The good news is that equinus is seen daily at our offices.  All of our providers are skilled at offering treatment options, both conservative and surgical, for this problem.