Achilles tendonitis is a common overuse injury that affects the Achilles tendon, the body's strongest tendon. The pain often occurs in connection with increased exercise but can also develop with prolonged everyday strain.
What is Achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is a condition in which the Achilles tendon becomes irritated and overstretched. The Achilles tendon, also known as the Achilles tendon, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is crucial for movements such as walking, running, and jumping.
When the load on the tendon becomes greater than the tissue can handle, small micro-damages can occur. This leads to pain, stiffness and sometimes swelling in the area. The problems most often occur in the middle of the tendon but can also be located in the attachment at the heel bone.
Symptoms
- Local pain and tenderness along the Achilles tendon
- Stiffness and trouble starting, especially in the morning
- Swelling around the tendon, sometimes with redness and warmth
- Pain that increases with exertion
- Creaking sensation or sound when moving
- Rest pain in long-term inflammation
The symptoms of Achilles tendonitis often occur in situations where the Achilles tendon is repeatedly stressed.
When does Achilles tendonitis hurt the most?
The pain of Achilles tendonitis often occurs in situations where the Achilles tendon is heavily or repeatedly stressed.
At the first steps in the morning
Many people experience stiffness and pain in the Achilles tendon when they start walking after a night's rest.
When running or jumping
Activities where the calf muscles work intensively can worsen the symptoms.
After physical activity
The pain may be more evident after exercise than during the activity itself.
When pressure is applied to the Achilles tendon
Some people experience tenderness when pressing along the tendon or when shoes touch the area.
Common causes & risk factors
The most common cause of Achilles tendonitis is overuse. It can occur with a rapid increase in training volume, intense activity, or inadequate recovery.
Anatomical factors can also contribute. Overpronation of the foot places lateral strain on the Achilles tendon, which can increase irritation. Inappropriate shoes, hard surfaces, and tight calf muscles can also increase the risk.
When should you seek medical attention?
If pain persists, difficulty putting weight on the foot, or if the symptoms do not improve despite rest and weight-bearing, you should contact your healthcare provider. It is especially important to get an assessment for long-term or recurring problems.
Recommended protection & support
In the case of Achilles tendonitis, the right protection and relief can contribute to reduced pain and increased comfort in everyday life and activity.
A heel spur combines heel wedge relief with compression, which can reduce swelling and provide support to the tendon. A pronation insole can help correct foot loading and reduce lateral stress on the Achilles tendon. A heel spur can also relieve pressure by reducing the tendon's working area.
Rehabilitation with individually adapted exercises by a physiotherapist is often an important part of treatment because it strengthens the tendon and improves load resistance.
See all braces and supports that can relieve Achilles tendonitis
Related injuries
For more information about the foot and heel, you can read more in the Injury Guide Foot & Heel. You can also go to the Injury Guide main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
