How long does tendonitis last?

Achilles Tendonitis?

• I have had this for 7 weeks after having an accident on the stairs where my ankle gave way causing me to land on it. I only found out 2 weeks ago that it was achilles tendonitis as well as a possible ligament injury. I have sprained the same ankle 3 times within the last year. The doctor has told me I need physical therpy. How long will it take until I can take part in sports again? Can it be made worse, if it can how and what happens? Basically any information on anything to do with achilles tendonitis (sorry if spelt wrong) By the way I am 13 years old.

• Answer:

  I had the same thing when I was your age. It took a year to heal. Try contrast baths. Dip ankle in a bucket of hot water for one minute, then cold for one minute. Go back and forth several times. This won't cure you, but will help. Hot promotes circulation and cold reduces inflamation. Do this after moving or exercise. Before bed, first thing in the morning. Go easy until it is healed. Tendons have a low blood supply to them so they take a long time to heal.