Achilles Tendonitis – Causes, Symptoms and Support for the Achilles Tendon
Achilles tendonitis is a common overuse injury that affects the Achilles tendon, the body's strongest tendon. The pain often occurs with increased exercise but can also occur with everyday stress.
What is Achilles tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone and is used with every step. With heavy or prolonged strain, the tendon can become irritated and inflamed. The problems usually occur in the middle of the tendon but can also be located in the attachment at the heel. Achilles tendonitis often leads to stiffness, swelling and pain that worsens with activity.
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
- A creaking sensation or sound when moving
- Rest pain in long-term inflammation
Common causes & risk factors
The most common causes are overload through increased training volume, intense activity or lack of recovery. Anatomical factors, such as overpronation of the foot, can also contribute because it causes the Achilles tendon to work sideways. Inappropriate shoes and hard surfaces 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 with 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
There are several effective aids to relieve the Achilles tendon and speed up recovery. An Achilles tendon protector combines the heel wedge's relief with compression, which both reduces swelling and provides extra support. A pronation insole can counteract foot misalignment and reduce lateral load on the tendon, while an Achilles tendon wedge relieves the load by reducing the tendon's working area and often provides immediate pain relief. Physiotherapy in the form of individually adapted rehabilitation training is also an important part, as it strengthens the tendon and speeds up recovery. With the right support, relief and a gradual return to activity, the discomfort can decrease, and the Achilles tendon can gradually regain its function. See all our products for the foot and heel here.
About our Injury Guide – quick guidance in case of complaints
In our Injury Guide, you will receive clear and easy-to-understand information about common injuries, how they occur and what symptoms usually occur. You will also receive recommendations on which protection and aids can relieve your discomfort and help you further in your rehabilitation. All information is based on expert knowledge from our licensed physiotherapist.
For more information about the foot and heel, you can read more in the Injury Guide Foot & Heel, and you can also go to the Injury Guide's main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
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