Tendon injuries can stop you in your tracks — whether you’re an athlete pushing your limits, a professional on your feet all day, or simply going about your daily routine. When the tendons in your foot or ankle are strained, torn, or inflamed, even basic movement becomes painful. At Momentum Foot & Ankle in Boynton Beach, FL, we provide expert, personalized care to help you recover fully and get back to the activities that matter most.
Dr. Christopher Zimmer is a fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with advanced expertise in tendon injuries, complex reconstructive procedures, and lower extremity trauma. He completed a dedicated Trauma & Reconstruction Fellowship at Westside Regional Medical Center in Plantation, FL, and trained extensively at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center — one of the nation’s leading surgical residency programs.
What Are Tendon Injuries?
Tendons are strong, fibrous tissues that connect your muscles to your bones. The foot and ankle rely on several key tendons to support movement, balance, and stability. When these tendons are overused, stretched beyond their limits, or subjected to sudden trauma, injury can occur.
Common tendon injuries we treat include:
- Achilles Tendon Tears & Tendinitis — Affects the tendon connecting the calf to the heel bone
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) — A leading cause of adult-acquired flatfoot
- Peroneal Tendon Injuries — Common after ankle sprains or chronic instability
- Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) Tendinitis — Often seen in dancers and runners
- Extensor Tendon Injuries — Can result from trauma or repetitive overuse
Causes & Risk Factors
Tendon injuries can develop gradually or occur suddenly. Common contributing factors include:
- Overuse or repetitive stress from sports or physical activity
- Sudden increases in training intensity or mileage
- Improper footwear or poor biomechanics
- Previous ankle sprains or chronic instability
- Age-related degeneration
- Flat feet, high arches, or structural foot abnormalities
- Certain medications (such as fluoroquinolone antibiotics)
Recognizing the Symptoms
Tendon injuries can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. You may be experiencing a tendon problem if you notice:
- Pain or tenderness along the back, inside, or outside of the ankle
- Swelling or warmth around the affected tendon
- Stiffness in the morning or after periods of rest
- Weakness or difficulty pushing off when walking
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
- Worsening pain with activity
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Dr. Zimmer will perform a thorough physical examination, review your history, and may order imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to assess the extent of the injury and rule out associated damage to surrounding structures.
Treatment Options
At Momentum Foot & Ankle, we believe in conservative care first — surgery is only recommended when truly necessary. Treatment is always individualized to your specific injury, lifestyle, and goals.
Conservative treatments may include:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol)
- Custom orthotics or supportive bracing
- Physical therapy and targeted stretching
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Immobilization with a boot or cast
- Regenerative therapies (PRP or similar, where appropriate)
Surgical options may include:
- Tendon debridement or repair
- Tendon reconstruction or transfer
- Minimally invasive procedures when eligible
Why Choose Momentum Foot & Ankle?
When it comes to tendon injuries, who you trust with your care matters. At Momentum Foot & Ankle, we combine fellowship-level surgical expertise with a patient-first approach that prioritizes education, honesty, and lasting results. We serve patients throughout Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County — from athletes and active professionals to seniors and those referred by their primary care providers.
- Fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon
- Conservative treatment before surgery — always
- Personalized, one-on-one care with Dr. Zimmer
- Evidence-based treatment plans
- Accepts most major insurance plans
- Convenient Boynton Beach location
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Don’t let a tendon injury limit your life. Whether your pain is new or has been building for months, early evaluation leads to better outcomes. Contact us today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Zimmer and take the first step toward recovery.
Call us at (561) 369-4455 or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you move forward — confidently and pain-free.
