Achilles Tendinopathy: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been experiencing persistent pain in your heel or lower calf, especially during or after physical activity, you may be dealing with a condition known as Achilles tendinopathy. This common issue, particularly in people who are physically active or on their feet for long periods, can significantly impact your mobility if left untreated.
At Healthy Life Foot Clinic, we’re here to help you understand the condition and recover properly, so you can return to doing what you love without discomfort.
What is Achilles Tendinopathy?
Achilles tendinopathy refers to degeneration within the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel bone (calcaneus). This tendon plays a critical role in walking, running, jumping, and almost every movement involving your lower limbs.
When overused, especially in high-impact activities like running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction, the tendon can develop microscopic tears. The body responds with inflammation, which is a normal part of healing. However, if the stress on the tendon continues without adequate management, the inflammation becomes chronic, leading to long-term damage and pain.
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What Causes Achilles Tendinopathy?
Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:
- Sudden changes in activity (such as increasing your training frequency or intensity)
- Inadequate rest or recovery time
- Biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or overpronation
- Poor footwear lacking proper support
- Tight calf muscles or limited ankle joint mobility
These risk factors place extra strain on the tendon, leading to repetitive injury and degeneration over time.
What Does Achilles Tendinopathy Feel Like?
Most people with Achilles tendinopathy report:
- Gradual onset of pain just above the heel
- Pain or stiffness first thing in the morning, often easing as the day goes on
- Tenderness or swelling along the back of the ankle
- Pain that worsens with continued activity and may become constant over time
Initially, discomfort may seem minor—just a bit of stiffness or soreness after a run. But without proper treatment, symptoms tend to escalate.
How Common Is Achilles Tendinopathy?
Achilles tendinopathy affects a wide range of people—from elite athletes to weekend walkers. In fact, studies suggest it accounts for up to 11% of all running-related injuries.
As we age, the risk increases with research showing that Achilles Tendinopathy is mostly likely to occur between the ages of 30 and 50, when the tendons naturally lose some of their elasticity and strength.
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What Should You Do If You Suspect You Have Achilles Tendinopathy?
It’s important not to ignore the symptoms.
In the early stages, icing the area for 15–20 minutes post-activity and performing gentle calf stretching can help relieve discomfort. But these are only temporary solutions.
Achilles tendinopathy rarely resolves on its own. Without proper assessment and a tailored treatment plan, the condition can become chronic—leading to more pain, more time off activity, and even risk of tendon rupture.
How Can a Podiatrist Help Your Achilles Tendinopathy?
Seeing a podiatrist is one of the most effective steps you can take toward recovery.
At our clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating Achilles tendinopathy:
✅ Biomechanical Assessment – We identify any foot or gait abnormalities contributing to tendon stress.
✅ Custom Orthotics & Heel Lifts – These help redistribute pressure and support proper foot alignment.
✅ Activity Modification Plans – Tailored guidance to keep you active while promoting healing.
✅ Hands-on Treatment – Including massage, dry needling and stretching to relieve tension and improve mobility.
✅ Targeted Exercise Programs – Eccentric calf strengthening is especially effective in improving tendon resilience and reducing pain.
✅ Shockwave Therapy & Low-Level Laser Therapy – Evidence-based treatments shown to accelerate healing in chronic cases.
✅ Education – Helping you understand what to do (and what not to do) to support long-term recovery.
Surgical intervention is very rarely needed and usually only considered if the tendon is severely damaged or ruptured.
Take Your First Step Towards Recovery
Delaying treatment often leads to more damage, longer recovery, and time off from the activities you enjoy.
We specialise in treating Achilles tendon issues with a personalised, evidence-based approach. Whether you’re a recreational runner, a busy professional, or just trying to keep up with your kids—we can help you move pain-free again.
If you’re experiencing heel or tendon pain, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger issue. Let’s assess your symptoms, identify the root cause, and create a treatment plan that works for you.
📞 Call us today or book online to schedule your consultation with one of our experienced podiatrists.
Your feet deserve expert care—let’s get you back on your feet!
