Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is a common condition presenting as pain at the back of your heel. It typically results from overuse, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the tendon, especially during physical activities like running or jumping.

There are two main types: insertional Achilles tendinopathy, which occurs where the tendon attaches to the heel bone, and non-insertional, which affects the middle portion of the tendon. Risk factors include sudden increases in physical activity, poor footwear and biomechanical factors such as foot posture, lower limb strength or technique. 

Proper examination by our expert Podiatrists can determine the cause of your Achilles pain so that the right rehabilitation is prescribed for you to get back to being active, faster.

  • Achilles tendinopathy is a condition characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, often caused by overuse or repetitive stress.

  • Symptoms include pain and tenderness in the back of the heel, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes a creaking sensation when moving the tendon.

    We usually find the pain is often worse first thing in the morning or at the start of an activity. This could be walking upstairs, going for your afternoon walk or at the start of a running session.

  • It is usually caused by overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues like flat feet or high arches. We also find people with previous injuries that has increased the workload in the affected leg contribute to the development of this condition.

  • Athletes, especially runners and those involved in sports with jumping activities, are at higher risk. Other risk factors include age, obesity, and certain medications.

  • Our Podiatrists will firstly, properly assess and diagnose your Achilles injury. We will prescribe a combination of conservative therapies aimed at reducing pain, promoting healing, and restoring function. This might include, tailored rehabilitation exercises, heel lifts, foot orthotics and shockwave therapy.

  • Yes, by gradually increasing exercise intensity, wearing proper footwear, maintaining flexibility and strength in the calf muscles, and avoiding sudden changes in physical activity.