Pain at the back of your heel or lower leg can make everyday activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs uncomfortable. One of the most common causes of this type of pain is Achilles tendonitis, a condition frequently seen in both athletes and non-athletes.
At South Dublin Podiatry, we regularly treat patients with Achilles tendon pain and help them return to activity safely and comfortably. Understanding the condition early can help prevent it from becoming a long term problem.
What Is Achilles Tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon is the strong band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It is the largest tendon in the body and plays an essential role in walking, running, and jumping.
Achilles tendonitis occurs when this tendon becomes irritated, inflamed, or overloaded, usually due to repetitive strain.
Over time, repeated stress can cause small tears in the tendon, leading to pain and stiffness.
Common Causes
Achilles tendonitis usually develops gradually rather than from a single injury. Some common causes include:
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Sudden increase in physical activity
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Running on hard or uneven surfaces
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Tight calf muscles
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Poor footwear or worn-out runners
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Flat feet or over-pronation
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High training intensity without adequate recovery
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Age-related tendon changes
People who participate in sports that involve running or jumping are particularly at risk.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
Symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to more persistent pain.
Common signs include:
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Pain at the back of the heel or along the tendon
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Morning stiffness in the Achilles tendon
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Pain that worsens with activity
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Tenderness or swelling along the tendon
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A tight feeling in the calf
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Pain when walking uphill or climbing stairs
Symptoms often start gradually and worsen if the tendon continues to be overloaded.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
Many people ignore early Achilles pain and continue exercising, which can lead to worsening symptoms or even tendon rupture.
You should consider seeing a podiatrist if:
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Pain lasts longer than a few days
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The tendon feels thickened or swollen
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Walking or running becomes painful
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Symptoms keep coming back
Early treatment usually leads to faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
Treatment Options
At South Dublin Podiatry, treatment plans are tailored to each patient and may include:
Activity Modification
Reducing or temporarily stopping activities that aggravate the tendon helps reduce strain and allows healing.
Footwear Advice
Supportive footwear can significantly reduce stress on the Achilles tendon.
Custom Orthotics
Custom foot orthotics can help correct abnormal foot mechanics such as over-pronation that may contribute to tendon strain.
Stretching and Strengthening
Specific exercises targeting the calf muscles and Achilles tendon help improve flexibility and tendon strength.
Shockwave Therapy
In chronic cases, shockwave therapy may help stimulate tendon healing and reduce pain.
A podiatry assessment can identify underlying factors such as gait abnormalities or poor foot mechanics.
Preventing Achilles Tendonitis
Simple steps can reduce your risk of developing Achilles tendon pain:
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Increase training intensity gradually
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Stretch your calf muscles regularly
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Wear supportive footwear
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Replace running shoes when worn out
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Avoid sudden increases in running distance or speed
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Include rest days in your training schedule
Get Expert Help for Heel Pain
Achilles tendonitis can become a long-term problem if left untreated. Early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can help relieve pain and prevent further injury.
If you are experiencing pain at the back of your heel, our podiatry team can provide a full assessment and personalised treatment plan to get you back on your feet. Contact us today to book an appointment.