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Read MoreAchilles tendinitis is an overuse injury that causes pain and stiffness in the tendon connecting your calf to your heel. With the right care, you can reduce inflammation, restore mobility and return to daily activities and exercise with greater comfort.
What Is Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles tendinitis is a type of Achilles tendon injury that causes pain, stiffness and inflammation in the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel. It occurs when the tendon is irritated from overuse, tight calf muscles, improper footwear or sudden increases in activity. If untreated, Achilles tendinitis may progress into more chronic tendinopathies, which involve degeneration of the tendon rather than just inflammation.
There are two main types of Achilles tendinitis:
- Noninsertional Achilles tendinitis: The fibers in the middle portion of the tendon are affected. This type is more common in younger, active individuals and is often linked to running or high-impact sports.
- Insertional Achilles tendinitis: The irritation occurs where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. This type can affect people of all activity levels and may be associated with bone spurs at the tendon’s attachment site.
Achilles tendinitis is one of the most common types of Achilles tendon injuries, but it is also one of the most treatable. A variety of Achilles tendinitis therapies—including stretching, physical therapy and, in some cases, bracing or surgery—can help relieve symptoms and restore strength, flexibility and mobility.
What Are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis?
Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis often develop gradually and may worsen with activities such as running, jumping or climbing stairs. Symptoms may include:
- Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning
- Swelling or thickening in the tendon area
- Tenderness when touching or squeezing the tendon
- Pain that worsens with activity or exercise
- Limited ankle flexibility or a reduced range of motion
- A creaking or crackling sound when the tendon is moved or pressed
How Is Achilles Tendinitis Diagnosed?
Athlete's foot is typically diagnosed based on the characteristic symptoms and a physical examination of the affected area. Your podiatrist will look for signs of redness, scaling, itching and peeling of the skin between the toes or on the soles of the feet. If necessary, your podiatrist may collect a skin scraping for microscopic examination or fungal culture to confirm the presence of fungal infection and identify the specific fungus causing the condition.
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Achilles Tendinitis Treatment Options
Rest and Activity Modification
Reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate the tendon—such as running, jumping or climbing stairs—gives the tendon time to heal and prevents further irritation.
Ice and Medications
Applying ice and taking anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling, tenderness and pain along the tendon.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Physical therapy often includes calf stretches and eccentric strengthening exercises, which are highly effective for restoring tendon health and function.
Bracing, Heel Lifts or Orthotics
Supportive devices can help reduce stress on the tendon, especially in cases of insertional Achilles tendinitis.
Shockwave Therapy
In some cases, sound wave treatments are used to stimulate blood flow and promote tendon healing when conservative care is not enough.
Injections
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or other injections may be considered in persistent cases, though results can vary.
Our Approach to Achilles Tendinitis
Treatment At Inspira, we understand that Achilles tendinitis can make even simple movements, such as walking, climbing stairs or exercising, uncomfortable. Our team begins with a detailed evaluation to determine whether the condition is insertional or noninsertional, then designs a personalized plan that may include stretching programs, physical therapy and supportive devices to reduce strain on the tendon.
Our rehabilitation specialists use evidence-based techniques, including eccentric strengthening, manual therapy and advanced options when appropriate. For patients who need surgical intervention, we provide seamless coordination with orthopedic surgeons to ensure continuity of care. Throughout recovery, our focus is on reducing pain, restoring mobility and helping patients safely return to the activities they enjoy.
