Diagnosis of Achilles Tendonitis

For a proper and accurate diagnosis of Achilles Tendonitis, you will need to go through a detailed physical exam, as well as certain imagining tests. In addition to that, your doctor will ask you questions about the symptoms you have been experiencing.

Physical Exam:

During the physical exam, the doctor touches the affected area gently. This helps determine the exact location of the problem.
Your examiner may ask you to walk a short distance, just to observe your gait.
Doctors also judge range of motion, flexibility, reflexes and alignment of the foot as well as the ankle through this exam.

Imaging Tests:

There are three types of imaging tests that may be recommended to determine the extent of damage incurred by the tendon. These tests include:

An x-ray, which produces images of the hard tissues
An ultrasound, where sound waves are used to produce an image of the soft tissues
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), where magnetic fields and radio waves are used to produce 3-Dimensional images and cross-sectional views.

Questions about the Symptoms:

While carrying out the physical exam and studying the symptoms that are evident, your doctor may ask you several questions to determine the exact cause of the problem. Given below are some of the questions that your doctor may ask you:

For how long have you been experiencing the pain and other symptoms?
Does the pain usually reduce when you rest?
Do the symptoms worsen at certain times of the day, or after certain activities?
Do you play any sport or follow an exercise program?
Have you made any changes to your training or exercise program?
What types of shoes do you normally wear during various activities?

Therefore, it is advisable for you to make a note about your symptoms as soon as you set up an appointment with your doctor.

Signs & Symptoms

Prognosis