Foot and ankle pain can put your life on hold. At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we see a lot of patients from Norwalk and surrounding areas who are dealing with stubborn, nagging heel pain. Often, the culprit is Achilles tendinitis, an overuse injury that can turn everyday activities into a real struggle.

If you’re tired of limping around, modifying your routine, or missing out on walks, hikes, or your workout class—this post is for you. Let’s dive into what Achilles tendinitis is, why it happens, and the different treatment options available—including our modern, non-invasive solution: MLS Laser Therapy.

What Is Achilles Tendinitis?

The Basics

Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which runs from the calf muscles down to the heel bone. It’s the strongest tendon in the body, but it’s also one of the most prone to injury, especially from repetitive stress.

There are two main types:

• Non-insertional Achilles Tendinitis: Affects the middle part of the tendon and is common in younger, active people.
  
  
• Insertional Achilles Tendinitis: Affects the lower portion where the tendon attaches to the heel bone, often in older adults or those with a history of overuse.
  
  

Regardless of the type, the symptoms are similar:

• Pain and stiffness in the back of the heel
  
  
• Swelling
  
  
• Pain that worsens after activity
  
  
• Tenderness to touch
  
  

Why Achilles Tendinitis Happens

Causes and Risk Factors

In our Norwalk clinic, we see Achilles tendinitis across many age groups and activity levels. The most common causes include:

• Overuse from running, jumping, or climbing stairs
  
  
• Sudden increases in activity
  
  
• Poor footwear or worn-out shoes
  
  
• Tight calf muscles
  
  
• Flat feet or high arches
  
  
• Age-related wear and tear
  
  

Often, it’s a combination of lifestyle factors and biomechanics. That’s why we take a full-body approach to diagnosing and treating this condition.

How We Diagnose It

The First Step to Relief

When you visit Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we’ll start with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, activity level, and medical history. From there, we perform:

• A physical exam of the foot and ankle
  
  
• Range of motion tests
  
  
• Palpation to identify tenderness
  
  
• Diagnostic imaging if needed (such as X-rays or ultrasound)
  
  

This helps us rule out other conditions like tendon ruptures or bursitis and ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

Conservative to Advanced Care

We always start with conservative, non-invasive approaches whenever possible. In fact, most of our patients experience major improvement without surgery. Here's a breakdown of what treatment might look like:

Rest and Activity Modification

You may need to reduce or temporarily stop activities that aggravate the tendon. We’ll help you figure out what’s safe and what needs to change short-term.

Ice and Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes and using over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can reduce swelling.

Stretching and Physical Therapy

Targeted calf stretches and strengthening exercises are essential. These help offload the stress placed on the Achilles tendon.

Custom Orthotics

We offer custom-molded orthotics that can improve foot mechanics and reduce strain on the tendon during daily movement.

MLS Laser Therapy

For patients who are still in pain after initial treatment—or those who want faster relief—we may recommend MLS Laser Therapy, one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for soft tissue injuries.

What is MLS Laser Therapy?

Modern Healing Without Surgery

MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy uses two synchronized wavelengths of laser light to penetrate soft tissues deeply and stimulate healing at the cellular level. This laser:

• Reduces inflammation
  
  
• Increases circulation
  
  
• Speeds up tissue repair
  
  
• Blocks pain signals
  
  

It’s completely painless, with no downtime and no side effects. Most patients feel only a gentle warmth during treatment.

We’ve found it particularly helpful for Achilles tendinitis, especially in cases where inflammation and chronic stress are preventing the body from healing on its own.

How MLS Laser Therapy Works for Achilles Tendinitis

At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we use this treatment as part of a comprehensive plan. Here's how it supports recovery:

• Reduces inflammation around the tendon, helping relieve pain quickly.
  
  
• Improves blood flow to the area, which is typically limited in tendons.
  
  
• Accelerates cell repair, meaning quicker healing and tissue regeneration.
  
  
• Eliminates the need for medications, injections, or surgical intervention in many cases.
  
  

Sessions are quick—around 15 minutes—and many patients begin to feel better after 2–3 treatments, though a full plan usually includes 6–10 sessions.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

While most people don’t need surgery, there are rare cases where the tendon has degenerated significantly or formed bone spurs. In these situations, we may discuss minimally invasive surgical options to debride damaged tissue or remove bone growth.

But rest assured—we always try every non-surgical approach first, and only turn to surgery if there are no other options left.

Why Norwalk Residents Turn to Us

Local Expertise, Personalized Care

As one of the most trusted podiatrists in Fairfield County, Dr. Greenberger takes pride in helping our neighbors in Norwalk stay active and pain-free. Here’s why patients choose us:

• Double Board-Certified: Dr. Greenberger is board-certified in foot surgery and reconstructive rearfoot/ankle surgery.
  
  
• Patient-Focused Care: We take time to listen and create a plan that fits your lifestyle.
  
  
• On-Site Diagnostics: No need to travel around for imaging—we do it all right here.
  
  
• Modern Technology: MLS Laser Therapy is just one of many advanced tools we offer.
  
  

Real Results from Real Patients

One patient, a 45-year-old warehouse worker from Norwalk, came to us after months of limping and discomfort. Rest wasn’t helping. Within five MLS Laser sessions, his pain decreased by over 70%. He was able to return to work full-time—without pain.

Another patient, a former marathon runner in her 60s, had chronic Achilles pain for over a year. She had tried physical therapy and shoe inserts without long-term success. After combining orthotics, stretching, and MLS Laser Therapy, she now walks several miles a day without any flare-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to heal?

With conservative care and MLS Laser Therapy, most patients recover from mild to moderate Achilles tendinitis within 4–8 weeks.

Can I exercise during treatment?

That depends on the severity of your symptoms. We’ll guide you on what’s safe and how to modify your activity until healing is complete.

Is this treatment covered by insurance?

MLS Laser Therapy is often not covered by insurance. However, many patients find it well worth the investment to avoid surgery, downtime, and chronic pain.

Don’t Ignore That Heel Pain

Pain in your Achilles tendon isn’t something to brush off. Left untreated, it can progress to tendon degeneration or even rupture—requiring surgery and a long recovery.

If you’re dealing with ongoing heel or calf pain, don’t wait. At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we specialize in non-invasive, personalized care—starting with MLS Laser Therapy and other proven solutions to help you get back on your feet.

Click here to set up a consultation
and take the first step toward a pain-free future.