Achilles tendinopathy, often referred to as Achilles tendonitis or Achilles tendinosis, is a common and painful condition affecting the thick tendon at the back of your heel and ankle. The Achilles tendon serves as the attachment of the calf muscles to the back of the heel bone. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments can help you find relief and recover effectively.
What Is Achilles Tendinopathy and Why Does It Happen?
Achilles tendinopathy occurs when the tendon undergoes degenerative and painful changes due to overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues. Anytime you walk, run, or even point your foot downward, your calf muscle is actively working and putting load on the tendon. If the load exceeds what the tendon can safely handle, changes can occur, resulting in pain, inflammation, and degeneration.
Common Causes of Achilles Tendon Pain
Several factors can lead to Achilles tendinopathy:
- Running Activities: Especially at high speeds or long distances. Up to eight times your body weight can go through your Achilles tendon during running!
- Intense Training: Increasing the intensity or duration of your training without sufficient rest.
- Improper Footwear: Shoes that don’t provide proper support for your biomechanics or activity type.
- Foot Biomechanics: Flat feet or high-arched foot types may increase strain on the tendon.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendinopathy You Should Know
The following symptoms are common indicators of Achilles tendinopathy:
- Pain first thing in the morning or after sitting for a while.
- Pain in the heel or back of the lower leg during activities like walking, running, or squatting.
- Stiffness, tenderness, or swelling in the tendon.
- Difficulty standing on tiptoes.
- A thickened tendon that feels warm to the touch.
How We Treat Achilles Tendinopathy
Common Treatment Options
- Achilles-Specific Exercises: Designed to gradually strengthen and repair the tendon.
- Shockwave Therapy: Reduces pain and stimulates tissue repair.
- Footwear Advice: Recommendations to support proper biomechanics.
- Orthotics: Custom insoles to improve alignment and reduce strain on the tendon.
- Strapping and In-Shoe Modifications: To stabilize and support the affected area.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you’re experiencing pain in your Achilles tendon, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment with our experienced podiatrists today by booking online or calling us at (07) 3733 0944 to get started on your personalised treatment plan.