The Achilles tendon can heal. Using physical therapy exercises combined with regenerative therapies, we restore function and get you back on your feet.
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It enables you to walk, run, jump, and push off on your toes.
Achilles tendinopathy occurs when the tendon becomes damaged from overuse, degeneration, or injury. The same cytokines and enzymes that cause osteoarthritis also contribute to tendon breakdown, leading to pain, swelling, and weakness that can persist for months without proper treatment.
Affects the lower portion of the tendon where it attaches to the heel bone. Often involves bone spurs and calcification.
Common in: Runners, people who are less active, and those with tight calf muscles
Affects the middle section of the tendon, typically 2-6 cm above the heel. Most common type in active individuals.
Common in: Athletes, middle-aged recreational exercisers, and weekend warriors
Pain and stiffness in the heel/calf that improves with movement
Worsens during or after running, jumping, or climbing stairs
Visible or palpable swelling along the back of the ankle
Difficulty pushing off the foot or rising on toes
Discomfort from shoe pressure (insertional type)
Pain when pressing on the tendon
Steroid injections around the Achilles tendon are generally avoided because they can weaken the tendon structure and significantly increase the risk of complete rupture. A ruptured Achilles typically requires surgery and 6-12 months of recovery.
Unlike steroids, regenerative therapies like PRP promote healing rather than weaken tissue. They deliver growth factors that stimulate the body's natural repair processes, restoring the cytokine balance needed for proper tendon healing.
A proven protocol combining the most effective non-surgical treatments for Achilles tendinopathy.
Assess Tendon Health
Dr. Buchheit uses diagnostic ultrasound to visualize the Achilles tendon, identifying areas of damage, thickening, or partial tears. This guides treatment decisions and allows us to monitor healing over time.
The Gold Standard for Achilles
Eccentric exercises are the most researched and effective treatment for Achilles tendinopathy. These exercises involve controlled lengthening of the calf muscle under load, which stimulates tendon remodeling and reactivates dormant tendon cells.
Accelerate Healing
Ultrasound-guided injection of regenerative therapies directly into the damaged area of the tendon delivers concentrated healing factors where they're needed most.
Yes, most cases of Achilles tendinopathy can be successfully treated without surgery. Eccentric exercises combined with regenerative therapies like PRP have shown excellent results in healing the tendon and restoring function.
Eccentric exercises involve controlled lengthening of the calf muscle while under tension, such as lowering your heel below a step. These exercises stimulate tendon remodeling and have strong research support for treating Achilles problems.
Steroid injections near the Achilles tendon are generally avoided because they can weaken the tendon structure and increase the risk of rupture. Regenerative therapies like PRP offer a safer alternative that promotes healing rather than masking symptoms.
Most patients begin noticing improvement within 4-6 weeks of treatment. Full recovery typically takes 2-3 months with physical therapy. This is significantly faster than surgical recovery times.
This depends on the severity of your condition. Many patients can continue modified activity during treatment. Dr. Buchheit will provide specific guidance based on your ultrasound findings and symptoms.
Find out if regenerative treatment can heal your Achilles tendon. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Buchheit today.
