Constant pain when you walk? Watch out for tendinitis

Read Time: 2 Minutes

Key Takeaways:

• Persistent foot or leg pain isn’t “just fatigue”—it could be a sign of tendinitis.
• Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons (the “cords” connecting muscle to bone), often caused by overuse, injury, or general wear and tear.
• Seeing a specialist is Priority #1. For persistent pain, consulting a podiatrist or vascular surgeon is the most important step for a correct diagnosis.
• You can help manage symptoms at home with “smart rest” (avoiding activities that hurt), applying ice, and elevating the leg if there’s swelling.
• Ignoring the problem can make it worse. A specialized team, like Soleil Surgical, can help you find the root cause of the pain.

That nagging ache in your foot or leg… it’s easy to blame it on a long day or a new pair of shoes. We often hope it’ll “just go away on its own.” But what happens when that pain doesn’t leave? What if it becomes a constant companion that keeps you from enjoying your daily routine?

It could be a clear sign of tendinitis. Understanding what your body is telling you is the first step to walking worry-free again. At Soleil Surgical, we believe moving without pain is essential, and we’re here to help you understand your options.

What is Tendinitis?

Think of your tendons as the strong, tough cords that connect your muscles to your bones, allowing you to move. Tendinitis is simply what happens when those “cords” become inflamed, either from overuse or a sudden injury. While it can happen anywhere, it’s incredibly common in the feet, ankles, and legs.

The most common causes are usually:

• Repetitive motion: Overloading the same area day after day (from running, jumping, or even walking on uneven ground).
• Sudden injury: A bad step, a fall, or an awkward movement that damages the tendon.
• Sudden overuse: That “weekend warrior” mistake—jumping into intense activity without proper conditioning.
• Age and wear: Over time, our tendons can lose some elasticity, making them more vulnerable.

How can you find relief?

The good news is that tendinitis is treatable, but it’s important to approach it the right way. If you’re dealing with this nagging pain, here are the recommended steps to start feeling better:

1. Consult a Specialist: This is the most important part. Before you self-diagnose or start any treatment on your own, you need to know exactly what’s going on. If the pain persists, gets worse, or limits your activities, it’s time to see a podiatrist or a vascular surgeon. Only a professional can evaluate your specific case, rule out other problems, and offer you the most appropriate treatment plan.
2. Rest: While you wait for your appointment, avoid the activities you know make the pain worse. This doesn’t mean stopping all movement, but being smart and not forcing the affected area.
3. Ice: A cold compress is a great natural anti-inflammatory. You can use an ice pack (always wrapped in a thin cloth) for 15-20 minutes, several times a day, to help calm the inflammation.
4. Elevation: If you notice swelling in your foot or ankle, elevating your leg can significantly help reduce it.

Walking without pain is essential to enjoying your daily life. If tendinitis is affecting your routine, don’t ignore the signs: your body is asking for professional attention.

At Soleil Surgical, we have a specialized team dedicated to vascular and podiatric health. Our commitment is to help you recover your mobility, prevent complications, and get back to walking with confidence.

Schedule your appointment today: (407) 343-4983. Your well-being starts with taking a step toward care.