Achilles Tendinitis
Pain Relief & Customized Healing Plans
Targeted treatment for strain, inflammation, and chronic Achilles pain so you can walk, run, and stay active comfortably.
What Is Achilles Tendinitis?
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone and helping you walk, run, jump, and climb stairs. When this tendon becomes irritated, inflamed, or overworked, it leads to Achilles tendinitis — a common source of heel and lower-leg pain.
Many patients first notice pain after activity or stiffness in the back of the heel when getting out of bed. Left unaddressed, it can become persistent and interfere with everyday movement.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis
Patients with Achilles tendinitis often experience:
- Pain or aching in the back of the heel or lower leg
- Stiffness or tenderness along the tendon
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon
- Difficulty pushing off when walking or running
Understanding the Causes of Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis typically results from repetitive stress to the tendon — often from running, jumping, or rapid increases in activity. Other common contributors include:
- Sudden increases in exercise intensity
- Tight calf muscles
- Improper footwear
- Changes in training surface or technique
How We Treat Achilles Tendinitis
(and help you recover)
At Northeast Foot & Ankle, we take a personalized, evidence-based approach designed to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence. Treatment options may include:
- Comprehensive biomechanics and gait evaluation
- Activity modification guidance to reduce tendon strain
- Targeted physical therapy exercises and structured stretching programs
- Custom or off-the-shelf orthotics to improve foot alignment and support
- Heel lifts or footwear recommendations to reduce tension on the tendon
- Advanced non-surgical treatments such as Shockwave Therapy and MLS Laser Therapy to promote healing and reduce inflammation
-
Surgical intervention when conservative treatment is not successful
Modern Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy helps stimulate tendon healing and improve function by delivering focused acoustic energy to the injured area. This treatment is often recommended for patients with stubborn Achilles pain who want to return to activity safely and efficiently.
MLS Laser Therapy
MLS Laser Therapy supports faster recovery by reducing inflammation and enhancing cellular repair in injured tendon tissue. Many patients benefit from this comfortable treatment as part of a comprehensive plan to relieve Achilles pain and restore movement.
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics help improve foot alignment and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon during walking, running, and daily activity. Providing targeted support and shock absorption, orthotics can play an important role in relieving pain and preventing the recurrence of tendon injuries.
When Should You See a Podiatrist for Achilles Tendinitis?
Consider scheduling an evaluation if:
- Pain persists for more than a few days despite rest, stretching, or activity modification
- Discomfort begins to limit walking, exercise, or daily activities
- You notice swelling, stiffness, or tenderness along the back of the heel or ankle
- Symptoms return repeatedly or worsen over time
- Home remedies do not provide meaningful relief
Early evaluation can help prevent the condition from progressing and allow for more effective, non-surgical treatment options. Take the next step
Ready to Find Relief From Achilles Pain?
Our podiatrists will evaluate your symptoms, identify the underlying cause, and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Schedule an evaluation at our Portsmouth or Nashua office today.
FAQs: Achilles Tendinitis
Is Achilles tendinitis the same as a rupture?
No. Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury that causes inflammation and pain in the tendon, while a rupture is a partial or complete tear of the tendon. A rupture is typically more severe and may require urgent medical treatment or surgery. A proper evaluation can help determine the cause of your symptoms.
How long does Achilles tendinitis take to heal?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the timing of treatment. Mild cases may improve within a few weeks, while more persistent or chronic cases can take several months. Following a structured treatment plan can help support healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Can I run or exercise with Achilles tendon pain?
Continuing to run or exercise through Achilles pain may worsen the injury and delay recovery. In many cases, modifying activity levels and addressing the underlying cause of tendon strain is important for healing. A podiatrist can help guide safe return-to-activity strategies.
Will custom orthotics help Achilles tendinitis?
When should I see a doctor for Achilles tendon pain?
What treatments are available for Achilles tendinitis?
Can Achilles tendinitis come back?
Free Downloadable Guide
In our guide, you’ll discover incredibly useful heel pain prevention tips including:
- Stretches
- Footwear
- Effectiveness of Cross-Training
- The Potential of Orthotics
Ready to Find Relief From Achilles Pain?
Our podiatrists will evaluate your symptoms, identify the underlying cause, and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Schedule an evaluation at our Portsmouth or Nashua office today.
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Portsmouth Office
14 Manchester Square, Suite 250
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Nashua Office
17 Riverside Street, Suite 205
Nashua, NH 03062
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