(08) 7008 7566
(08) 7118 5399
physio@upplus.com.au
177 Trimmer Parade, Seaton SA 5023Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is pain and thickening in the tendon at the back of the heel, from loading it faster than it can adapt. It behaves like other tendinopathies — stiff in the morning, warms up with activity, sore afterwards — and it responds to progressive loading. Where the pain sits, mid-tendon or right at the bone, changes the program, which is why it is worth having assessed.
What causes it
- A rapid increase in running, hill work or jumping
- Returning to sport after a break without a build-up
- Calf weakness and reduced ankle range
- A change in footwear, particularly heel drop
- Certain antibiotics, and conditions affecting tendon health
What you might notice
- Pain and stiffness in the tendon first thing in the morning
- Warming up during activity and hurting more afterwards
- Tenderness and sometimes visible thickening of the tendon
- Pain on hopping or going up onto tiptoe
- Discomfort in shoes that press on the back of the heel
How we treat it
- Isometric loading early for pain relief
- Progressive calf and tendon loading, built up over months
- Distinguishing mid-tendon from insertional pain, which changes the exercises
- Footwear and heel raise adjustments in the early phase
- Running volume and technique management
- Sudden severe pain with a snap needs urgent review for rupture
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Symptoms overlap between conditions, so the right treatment depends on an assessment. If your pain followed a significant injury, is getting worse, or comes with numbness, weakness or unexplained weight loss, please see your GP.
Where the pain sits changes the treatment
Pain in the middle of the tendon and pain right at the heel bone need different loading programs, and using the wrong one is why some achilles problems drag on.
Or call us on (08) 7008 7566 — we see patients across Seaton, Modbury and Stepney.