Chronic Heel or Achilles Pain: When It’s Time to Consider TenJet
Sharp heel pain, aching ankle, stiffness, and soreness—these are just some of the symptoms experienced by people with chronic heel or Achilles pain. What may start as a mild discomfort may slowly turn into daily pain that affects your quality of life.
Some cases may improve with conservative treatments, like rest, stretching, supportive footwear or physical therapy. However, when pain continues for months despite these options, patients may look for other solutions. One treatment that may be worth discussing with a podiatrist is TenJet .
Why Heel and Achilles Pain Can Become Chronic
Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis both involve irritation and damage to the tissues that help support and move your foot.
When plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, becomes overloaded or repeatedly stressed, small tears and inflammation can develop, leading to plantar fasciitis and the classic heel pain many people experience.
The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can also become irritated or damaged from repetitive stress. This condition, often called Achilles tendonitis, may cause stiffness, swelling, or pain along the back of the ankle.
Over time, repeated strain on these structures can lead to degeneration of the tissue. When the tissue becomes thickened, weakened, or damaged, symptoms may persist even after trying standard treatments. This stage is when the condition is often considered chronic.
When to Consider TenJet as a Treatment Option
TenJet is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided treatment designed to remove damaged tendon or fascia tissue. The procedure targets the diseased tissue that may be contributing to ongoing pain.
During the procedure, your podiatrist uses ultrasound imaging to precisely locate the damaged area. A small “needle-like” device then uses a pressurized saline stream to break down and remove the diseased tissue while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue intact.
TenJet may be recommended in situations such as:
- Persistent plantar fasciitis or chronic Achilles tendon pain lasting several months despite conservative treatments
- Ongoing pain that interferes with daily activities, exercise, or work
- Imaging that shows degenerative or damaged tissue within the tendon or fascia
Ultimately, your podiatrist will help determine if Tenjet is the right solution for you.
Get A Personalized Advice
If your symptoms have been lingering for months and aren’t improving with conservative treatments, it may be time to seek a professional evaluation. At Central Massachusetts Podiatry, our foot and ankle specialists can help determine whether TenJet or another treatment is the most appropriate option for your specific condition. Schedule a consultation with our podiatrists today.
