Tendonitis is one of the most common — and most overlooked — causes of foot and ankle pain. Whether you’re dealing with morning stiffness in your heel, aching around your ankle after activity, or nagging discomfort that won’t seem to go away, inflamed tendons could be to blame. At Momentum Foot and Ankle in Boynton Beach, we help patients identify what’s causing their pain and find the right path forward — without unnecessary procedures or guesswork.
Dr. Christopher Zimmer is a board-eligible, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with advanced training in tendon disorders, reconstructive surgery, and complex lower extremity trauma. He completed his residency at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Texas and a Trauma & Reconstruction Fellowship at Westside Regional Medical Center in Plantation, FL. Dr. Zimmer is a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) and has contributed to peer-reviewed research and national presentations in the field. He takes time with every patient — explaining diagnoses clearly, presenting all available options, and recommending surgery only when it’s truly warranted.
What Is Tendonitis?
Tendonitis (also spelled tendinitis) is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon — the thick, fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. In the foot and ankle, tendons are essential for movement, stability, and support. When they’re overloaded or repeatedly stressed, they can become swollen, painful, and limited in function.
Common Types Affecting the Foot & Ankle
Multiple tendons in the foot and ankle are vulnerable to inflammation, including:
- Achilles Tendonitis – Pain and stiffness at the back of the heel, connecting the calf to the heel bone
- Peroneal Tendonitis – Outer ankle pain, often associated with instability or overuse
- Posterior Tibial Tendonitis – Inner ankle pain that can contribute to flatfoot deformity over time
- Extensor Tendonitis – Discomfort along the top of the foot, often from tight footwear or overuse
- Flexor Tendonitis – Affects the tendons behind or beneath the ankle
Causes & Risk Factors
Tendonitis usually develops gradually rather than from a single event. Common contributing factors include:
- Overtraining or a sudden increase in physical activity
- Repetitive stress from running, sports, or occupational demands
- Poor footwear or biomechanical imbalances such as flat feet or high arches
- Tight or inflexible muscles
- Age-related changes to tendon tissue
- Underlying conditions like arthritis or diabetes
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on which tendon is involved, but commonly include:
- Localized pain or tenderness along the tendon
- Swelling, warmth, or visible thickening
- Stiffness that’s worst in the morning or after rest
- Pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest
- A feeling of weakness or instability in the foot or ankle
Diagnosis
Dr. Zimmer performs a thorough physical examination and reviews your symptom history and activity level. Imaging such as X-rays, diagnostic ultrasound, or MRI may be ordered to evaluate tendon integrity and rule out related conditions like stress fractures or partial tears.
Treatment Options
Most tendonitis cases respond well to conservative care. Your treatment plan may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy and targeted stretching
- Custom orthotics or supportive bracing
- Corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
If conservative treatment doesn’t provide lasting relief, surgical options to repair or reconstruct the affected tendon may be considered. Dr. Zimmer will walk you through every option — and surgery is never recommended until all appropriate alternatives have been explored.
Prevention Tips
- Warm up and stretch before physical activity
- Wear properly fitted, supportive footwear
- Increase training intensity gradually
- Address biomechanical issues early with orthotics or therapy
- Rest and seek evaluation when pain persists
Why Choose Momentum Foot & Ankle?
At Momentum Foot and Ankle, you receive personalized, one-on-one care from a fellowship-trained surgeon who believes in honest, transparent communication. We take time to understand your lifestyle, your goals, and your full medical picture — then build a treatment plan around you. Whether conservative care is the answer or surgery is the right next step, you’ll always know why.
Ready to get back on your feet? Contact us today to schedule your evaluation at Momentum Foot and Ankle in Boynton Beach. Call (561) 369-4455 — and take the first step toward lasting relief.
