Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis (tendinopathy/tendinosis) is an inflammation or degeneration process in the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.

It is a common overuse injury in people who engage in high levels of physical activity, particularly those who participate in sports that require a lot of running or jumping. 

Repetitive tendon use leads to micro-tears. When these micro-tears accumulate faster than they can repair themselves, inflammation occurs, resulting in Achilles tendonitis.

The most common factors that contribute to Achilles tendonitis include:

• An increased training schedule
• A change in training surfaces
• A change in footwear
• Biomechanical problems and muscle tightness

The pain associated with Achilles tendonitis typically begins with:

• A mild ache in the back of the leg or above the heel after sports activities
• More severe pain after prolonged running, stair climbing or sprinting
• Tenderness or stiffness, especially in the morning (often slightly alleviated with gentle activity)

At Footfocus Podiatry, we adopt a complete approach to your health, from the feet up, to provide you with the most accurate and effective diagnosis. 

– How do we assess you?

By carrying out a biomechanics assessment, we gather a complete understanding of any factors or changes in your behaviour or foot health that may indicate the onset of Achilles tendonitis. 

These include: 

• Lifestyle factors
• Training plans
• Footwear choice
• Inflammatory markers (blood results)
• Chronic inflammation caused by lifestyle and diet

After forming a comprehensive understanding of your biometrics and lifestyle through a biomechanical assessment, we are then able to get you back on your feet as quickly as possible using the most appropriate treatment. 

Investing in state of the art and innovative technologies complement our proactive and complete health approach. Our Rs Scan(R) Force pressure plate and Optogait(R) high-speed/ slow-motion video software enables us, and you, to see first-hand what is causing discomfort or pain. 

If your injury is particularly severe, we may also recommend over the counter pain medications to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. We will also prescribe specific stretching and strengthening exercises to help heal and strengthen the Achilles tendon and surrounding ligaments. We will also provide tailored orthotics advice to help ensure you are elevating your heel and relieving strain and excessive force to your Achilles tendon.

We care about you, and we care about your feet. Without a professional diagnosis, Achilles tendonitis can lead to more persistent pain around the Achilles tendon, which can lead to a torn (ruptured) Achilles tendon.

Contact us for more information or book your appointment today.

And if you would like support with assessing your walking or running gait to help prevent further sports or activity-related injuries, book a Podiatry appointment with one of our expert sports podiatrists.

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