Sprains, Tendonitis, Capsulitis & Shin Splints Treatment in Lakeway, TX
WHAT IS IT?
COMMON CAUSES
- Sudden increases in physical activity or training load
- Repetitive impact on hard surfaces
- Tight calf muscles increasing stress on foot tendons
- Biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches
- Improper footwear without adequate support
- Prior injury leading to altered movement patterns
- Overuse without adequate recovery time
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Aching or burning along tendons during or after activity
- Morning stiffness that improves with movement
- Swelling or thickening along a tendon
- Pain along the shin during running
- Tenderness at the ball of the foot (capsulitis)
- Weakness or limited range of motion in the ankle
TREATMENT OPTIONS
- MLS® Laser Therapy for anti-inflammatory effects without medication
- Eccentric strengthening protocols for tendon rehabilitation
- Custom orthotics to offload affected structures
- Corticosteroid or regenerative injections for resistant cases
- Immobilization boot or cast for acute flare-ups
- Shockwave therapy for chronic tendinopathy
- Physical therapy for full rehabilitation and return to activity
WHY ELITE FOOT & ANKLE?
Sprains and Soft Tissue Injuries: What Is the Difference?
Sprains, tendon problems, and joint irritation can feel alike, but each one affects a different tissue. Getting the diagnosis right is the first step toward healing.
- Sprains are stretched or torn ligaments, the bands that connect bone to bone. Ankle sprains are the most familiar example.
- Tendonitis affects the cords that connect muscle to bone, such as the Achilles tendon.
- Plantar fasciitis involves the thick band along the bottom of the foot. See our plantar fasciitis treatment page.
- Capsulitis is irritation of the capsule around a toe joint, often under the second toe.
- Shin splints cause pain along the shinbone, usually after a jump in training.
How We Treat Sprains and Overuse Injuries
Mild sprains often improve with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, followed by early gentle movement. More serious sprains may need a brace or walking boot for a period of time. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons guide to sprained ankles explains how they are graded.
Repeated sprains deserve attention, because ankles that keep giving way can damage the joint over time. Physical therapy helps restore balance and strength, and an ankle specialist can check for ligament damage if sprains keep happening.
For overuse injuries, we also look at why the tissue was overloaded. Shoes, training changes, tight calves, and foot mechanics can all play a part. Custom foot orthotics or MLS® laser therapy may be added to your plan.
When Sprains and Tendon Pain Need a Doctor
Call us if you cannot walk four steps, if pain sits directly over a bone, or if swelling has not eased after a few days. Sudden pain at the back of the ankle with a pop may be an Achilles rupture and should be seen right away.
Sprains and tendon injuries are common for hikers and runners around Lake Travis and Lakeway. Our Spicewood office can usually check bone injuries with on-site X-rays. Call (512) 907-3100 to be seen.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Tendonitis refers to acute inflammation of a tendon. Tendinopathy is a broader term describing chronic tendon degeneration, often without active inflammation. They require different treatment approaches — which is why accurate diagnosis matters.
Mild Achilles tendinitis can resolve in 4–6 weeks with appropriate treatment. Chronic cases (often called insertional Achilles tendinopathy) may take 3–6 months. Shockwave therapy and eccentric strengthening are the most evidence-based treatments for chronic cases.
You should significantly reduce or stop running until shin splints are evaluated. Running through shin splints risks developing a stress fracture, which requires weeks of non-weight-bearing recovery. Early intervention saves time in the long run.
Capsulitis is inflammation of the joint capsule at the base of the toes, most commonly the second toe joint. It causes pain at the ball of the foot and can cause the toe to drift. Treatment includes custom orthotics, padding, anti-inflammatory injections, and sometimes surgery if the toe drifts significantly.
Rarely. The vast majority of tendon and fascial conditions resolve with conservative treatment. Surgery is considered only after 6–12 months of documented conservative care without adequate improvement.
