The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body, but in spite of its size and toughness, it can be prone to injury. The most common Achilles tendon injury is tendinitis, an over-use injury resulting in inflammation and pain. Very serious cases of Achilles tendinitis may eventually result in a torn tendon, which requires surgery to fix. However, if you catch tendinitis early and seek care from a qualified orthopedist, you will likely recover with the help of these non-surgical methods.

Compression Bandages

The swelling associated with Achilles tendinitis can actually impede the healing process by reducing blood flow to the tendon. (Tendons already have limited blood flow!) The swelling also makes the pain worse. Wearing a compression bandage around your ankle can help keep swelling to a minimum so your tendon heals faster. Your orthopedist will show you just how to wrap your ankle to avoid getting it too tight or leaving it too loose. Often, you'll be told to wear the bandage for most of the day, removing it only to bathe or dress.

Orthopedic Inserts

Your orthopedic doctor will probably want to watch you walk and jog to see how you land on your feet. In some cases, all you might need is some orthotic inserts to change the way you're landing and take pressure off the Achilles. For instance, if you tend to land with your ankle rolling inward, a motion known as pronation, inserts that add padding to the inside of your foot should help correct this. Mild cases of Achilles tendinitis may resolve on their own within a few weeks once you have the right shoe inserts.

Cortisone Injections

Sometimes your body needs a little jump-start to the healing process. That's what a cortisone injection is. It's an injection of steroids straight into your Achilles tendon. The steroids help alleviate inflammation and stimulate the tendon to begin healing. The injection itself is not comfortable, but you should notice relief within a day or two. Some patients need a second follow-up injection a few weeks later for full healing.

Keep in mind that in addition to employing the treatments above, you will need to take time away from athletic activities and let your tendon heal. After a month or two, you can slowly work your way back up to your previous activity level. Rely on your ankle orthopedist for guidance as you proceed.