Stem Cell Treatments for Achilles Tendon Injuries

17 Mar Stem Cell Treatments for Achilles Tendon Injuries

Injuries to the ankle area can be excruciating, they can also take a long time to heal. This is understandable as the ankle is a weight-bearing joint and, often, you limp or walk awkwardly while trying to protect an injury. Unfortunately, this can lead to bio-mechanic issues due to placing too much emphasis on the other joints, this is why  Arizona pain specialists endeavor to manage pain while aiding the healing process.

Achilles tendon injuries are quite common. Anyone who loves to play sports or who goes walking or running could easily become susceptible and if the pain is felt in the lower calf muscle or at the back of the ankle, it may be the tendon that needs treatment. The Achilles tendon is one of the longest tendons, it’s paramount to walking and as such, it is always more vulnerable to injury simply through wear and tear. The tendon is a tough band of tissue and it connects the bones to muscle.

When it comes to Arizona pain relief, there will be different tendon issues that need to be considered.

• Tendonitis – this is where the tendon becomes inflamed. When the condition is acute, it can last for 6 weeks or more.
• Tendinosis – this is where the tendon weakens due to overuse but, it is a non-inflammatory degenerative condition.
• Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy – this is inflammation which leads to the degeneration of the tendon fibers. This is the part which connects to the back of the heel bone.
• Paratenonitis – where inflammation is present, it can lead to the tendon thickening.

Tendon tears are common and can happen suddenly. Think of the motion when you are running and suddenly find yourself changing direction or, stopping suddenly. You may hear a popping sound, and this will be followed by significant pain. This makes it very difficult to walk and worst-case scenario, there is the potential for surgery. Resting your injured ankle is important because the more you walk on it, the more you will aggravate the tendon damage.  This type of injury is painful, so it is essential that you discuss pain management options with your doctor.

Symptoms

Symptoms will vary but your ankle may be inflamed, warm to touch, be swollen or stiff, and there will certainly be reduced flexibility and motion. If left unchecked, you will find walking or indeed, any type of exercise will be limited going forward. Therefore, it is so important to take these types of injuries seriously as they can have a long-term negative effect on your life generally.

Treatment

Magnetic resource imaging (MRI) will provide an in-depth look at the Achilles tendon to ascertain whether there is any micro tears and ultrasound may be used to ascertain the Achilles tendon while still and in movement. Stem cell therapy may also be used and in recent years, this has been found to be a highly beneficial treatment for so many injuries. It is certainly worth considering stem cell treatment if your doctor advises this as a possible course of treatment.