Achilles Tendonitis

Causes of Achilles tendonitis

Achilles injuries often occur when the tendon is subjected to sudden, forceful loads that include pushing off explosively, landing from a jump or rapidly accelerating or decelerating.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon
• Sudden increase in exercise intensity, duration or frequency
• Tight calf muscles increasing strain on the tendon
• Inadequate footwear or poor training surfaces

Risk factors for Achilles tendonitis

• Running or jumping sports
• Rapid changes in training routines
• Flat feet or high arches
• Limited ankle flexibility

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis

The most common symptoms of an Achilles injury are pain, stiffness and tenderness along the back of the heel or lower calf, which typically worsen with activity.

Signs to look for:

• Pain or stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Swelling or tenderness near the heel
• Thickening of the tendon

Diagnosing Achilles tendonitis

Diagnosis is usually based on medical history and physical examination. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess tendon damage or rule out a tear.

Treatment of Achilles tendonitis

If you suspect you have an Achilles injury reduce or avoid activities that aggravate the tendon, such as running, jumping or sudden changes in direction. You should schedule an appointment to determine the severity of the injury and begin an appropriate recovery plan.

Treatment options include:

• Rest and activity modification
• Ice and anti-inflammatory medications
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Physical therapy
• Heel lifts or supportive footwear
• In severe or persistent cases, immobilization or surgical intervention may be considered

Recovery from Achilles tendonitis

Recovery from Achilles tendonitis requires a carefully staged, structured approach that balances rest with progressive loading activity. The focus is on reducing inflammation, gradually restoring tendon strength, improving flexibility and correcting movement patterns, while avoiding excessive stress that can worsen the injury.

The Achilles tendon has a relatively poor blood supply compared with muscles, which makes it slower to heal. Rushing back into running, jumping or other high-impact activities can turn an acute issue into a chronic problem. Successful rehabilitation also involves addressing tight calf muscles, weak surrounding muscles, poor footwear and training errors, ensuring that when the athlete returns to full activity the tendon can tolerate the demands of sport safely and sustainably.

When to seek care for Achilles tendonitis

• Pain persists or worsens despite rest and home treatment
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight
• Significant swelling, redness or warmth around the tendon
• Sudden sharp pain or a “popping” sensation in the heel or calf, which may indicate a tendon rupture