Foot and ankle pain can make even the simplest movements uncomfortable, but knowing where that pain is coming from is the first step to healing. Two of the most common injuries we see in our practice are Achilles tendonitis and ankle sprains. While they share some overlapping symptoms, these conditions have very different causes and treatment paths.
At Lake Erie Podiatry in Erie, PA, Dr. Michael Ruiz, DPM, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of lower extremity issues, from overuse injuries to acute ligament damage. With decades of experience in both conservative care and surgical solutions, Dr. Ruiz helps patients understand their condition and get back to doing what they love. Schedule your appointment today!
Here’s how to tell whether your symptoms point to Achilles tendonitis, an ankle sprain, or something else, and when to seek professional help.
What Is Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is a common condition involving irritation and inflammation of the Achilles tendon—the strong, fibrous tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It often occurs due to repetitive stress or overuse, making it particularly common among runners, athletes, or anyone who suddenly increases their physical activity.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Achilles tendonitis typically develops gradually. Common signs include:
- Pain and stiffness along the back of the heel or lower leg, especially noticeable after exercise.
- Tenderness and swelling around the Achilles tendon.
- Increased discomfort during activities like climbing stairs, running, or jumping.
- Achilles pain following an ankle sprain or periods of intense physical activity.
- Difficulty performing push-off motions, such as standing on your toes.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to Achilles tendonitis, including:
- Tight calf muscles that place excess strain on the tendon.
- Not adequately stretching or warming up before physical activities.
- A rapid increase in the intensity or duration of exercise routines.
- Repetitive stress from activities like running, jumping, or sudden movements.
- Wearing shoes that don't provide adequate support or that are worn out.
- Structural issues, such as heel bone spurs, are commonly associated with insertional Achilles tendonitis.
- Poor biomechanics or walking patterns that place additional stress on the tendon.
If Achilles tendonitis isn't addressed promptly, it can evolve into a chronic condition known as Achilles tendinosis, or even lead to an Achilles tendon rupture—a serious injury often requiring surgical intervention.
What Is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments—strong bands of tissue connecting bones to one another—around your ankle joint. It typically happens when your foot rolls, twists, or turns awkwardly, most commonly inward, causing the ligaments to overstretch or tear. Ankle sprains are among the most frequent injuries encountered in sports, exercise, and everyday activities.
Common Symptoms
When an ankle sprain occurs, you might experience:
- Sudden pain immediately after twisting or rolling your ankle.
- Noticeable swelling and bruising, especially around the outer side of the ankle.
- Tenderness to touch in the affected area.
- Instability or weakness in the ankle, often making it difficult to walk or bear weight.
- Achilles pain after a twisted ankle, which may occur due to altered walking patterns or compensatory strain.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors increase your risk of an ankle sprain, including:
- Uneven or unstable surfaces, such as rocky paths or poorly maintained walkways.
- Inappropriate or worn-out footwear, lacking proper support or traction.
- Weak or previously injured ankles, leading to recurrent sprains and chronic instability.
- Landing improperly or awkwardly during sports or physical activities.
- Participating in high-impact activities involving frequent jumping, quick pivots, or directional changes, such as basketball, soccer, or tennis.
It's important to address ankle sprains promptly, even mild ones, to avoid ongoing complications like chronic instability and repeated injuries. Proper care, rehabilitation, and strengthening can significantly reduce the risk of long-term issues.
Achilles Tendonitis vs. Ankle Sprains: Key Differences
Understanding the differences between Achilles tendonitis and ankle sprains helps guide treatment, prevent complications, and promote a safe return to activity.
Here are their main differences:
Tissue Affected
- Achilles Tendonitis: Affects the Achilles tendon, a strong fibrous band connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone.
- Ankle Sprain: Impacts the ligaments that surround and support your ankle joint.
Onset of Injury
- Achilles Tendonitis: Develops gradually, usually due to repetitive stress or overuse over a period of time.
- Ankle Sprain: Occurs suddenly, typically caused by trauma, such as rolling or twisting your ankle unexpectedly.
Location of Pain
- Achilles Tendonitis: Pain is typically felt at the back of the heel and the lower calf region.
- Ankle Sprain: Pain usually occurs around the side of the ankle, often on the outer (lateral) side.
Activities That Aggravate Symptoms
- Achilles Tendonitis: Symptoms worsen with activities involving running, jumping, and stair climbing.
- Ankle Sprain: Symptoms intensify with walking, standing, or placing weight on the injured ankle.
Treatment Focus
- Achilles Tendonitis: Treatment aims at reducing inflammation in the tendon, restoring flexibility, and strengthening calf muscles.
- Ankle Sprain: Treatment prioritizes stabilizing and supporting the ligaments, reducing swelling, and regaining strength and balance.
Recognizing these differences ensures appropriate care, quicker healing, and reduces the risk of recurring injuries.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It’s important not to ignore lingering or severe symptoms. You should seek prompt evaluation from a foot and ankle specialist if you experience:
- Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest, ice, or home care
- Swelling or bruising that continues for several days
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking normally
- Achilles pain following an ankle sprain, which may signal additional strain or injury
- A sudden “pop” in the back of the leg or heel, followed by weakness—this could indicate an Achilles tendon rupture
- Recurrent ankle injuries that interfere with your daily activities or exercise routine
Early diagnosis and treatment are key. Delaying care can lead to worsening tendon damage, chronic ankle instability, or the need for surgical intervention such as Achilles tendon repair or ligament reconstruction.
Treatment and Rehabilitation Options
At Lake Erie Podiatry, treatment begins with a detailed physical exam, a review of your medical history, and—if needed—imaging such as X-rays or MRI to confirm the diagnosis. Whether you're dealing with Achilles tendonitis or an ankle sprain, our focus is on reducing pain, restoring function, and preventing future injury through conservative, tailored care.
For Achilles Tendonitis, Dr. Ruiz may recommend:
- Custom physical therapy to address tight calf muscles and improve flexibility
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to support the Achilles tendon
- Orthotics or heel lifts to offload stress from the tendon during daily activities
- Walking boot or night splints for more moderate tendon injuries
- Shockwave therapy (ESWT) to stimulate healing in chronic or resistant cases
- Minimally invasive surgical repair if the tendon is ruptured or symptoms persist despite conservative care
For Ankle Sprains, our treatment approach may include:
- RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) during the acute phase
- Stabilisation techniques such as bracing or taping to support healing
- Rehabilitation programs to strengthen the ankle and restore balance
- Custom orthotics or ankle supports to reduce the risk of reinjury
- Surgical intervention for severe ligament tears or chronic instability
Our goal is always to provide the least invasive and most effective care first. Whether through physical therapy, orthotic solutions, or surgical consultation, Dr. Ruiz develops personalised treatment plans that prioritise comfort, function, and long-term recovery.
Why Choose Dr. Michael Ruiz at Lake Erie Podiatry
When it comes to foot and ankle injuries, experience matters. Dr. Michael Ruiz, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience treating everything from acute ankle sprains to complex Achilles tendon conditions. At Lake Erie Podiatry, patients receive care that is both highly skilled and personally tailored.
Here’s why patients across Erie, PA, trust Dr. Ruiz and his team:
- Expert Diagnosis and Treatment: From your first exam through recovery, Dr. Ruiz applies deep clinical knowledge to uncover the root of your pain.
- Conservative, Evidence-Based Approach: We focus on non-surgical solutions whenever possible to help you heal naturally and avoid unnecessary interventions.
- Surgical Expertise When Needed: When surgery is the right option, Dr. Ruiz offers advanced foot and ankle procedures with a focus on safety and long-term function.
- Personalised Care in a Supportive Setting: Every treatment plan is designed to fit your lifestyle, goals, and overall health.
Whether you're managing an overuse injury or recovering from a sudden ankle twist, Dr. Ruiz is here to guide your healing with experience, compassion, and confidence.
Heal with Confidence at Lake Erie Podiatry
Knowing the difference between Achilles tendonitis and ankle sprains helps you make informed decisions about your care. Whether your pain came on gradually or after a twist or fall, Dr. Ruiz offers expert evaluation and personalized treatment that fits your needs.
Call 814-833-3668 or request an appointment online to get started. Dr. Ruiz and the team at Lake Erie Podiatry are here to help you heal and stay moving.
