Achilles Tendon Problems
Achilles tendon problems are common in athletes and those who play sport.
Achilles Tendon Problems
The Achilles tendon is one of the most frequently injured structures in the foot and ankle. It plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping. If any of the symptoms described below sound familiar, it’s important to book an appointment for a thorough assessment with one of our experienced podiatrists.
What is the Achilles tendon and where is it located?
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, running from the heel bone (calcaneus) up to the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus). It connects the leg muscles to the foot and enables complex movements like standing on tiptoe, walking up stairs, running, and jumping.
The Achilles tendon is named after Achilles, a hero from ancient Greek mythology who was invincible to injury, except for a vulnerable spot on the back of his heel. The term ‘Achilles heel’ is often used to describe someone’s vulnerability, rather than a problem with the Achilles tendon.
Achilles tendinopathy and Achilles rupture
We often hear about Achilles tendon injuries in context of professional sports and athlete injuries. However, anyone can injure their Achilles tendon. Common problems that affect this tendon include:
Achilles tendinopathy
Achilles rupture
Achilles tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is a long-term condition that weakens your Achilles tendon. It typically develops from chronic strain and overuse, and not being able to heal from the many small tears that keep occurring. Achilles tendinopathy was previously referred to as ‘Achilles tendonitis’ which is a type of inflammation of the tendon.
People with Achilles tendon issues may experience:
- pain and stiffness along the back of the ankle or heel, usually worsening with activity or in the morning
- swelling, thickening, and tenderness of the tendon
- swelling in the lower leg
- difficulty walking, running, or standing on tiptoe
- weakness or inability to push off the ground.
Achilles rupture
An Achilles rupture is when the tendon is stretched past its natural range and usually results from a sudden forceful movement or injury. Typical symptoms of an Achilles rupture include:
- feeling you’ve been kicked in the calf
- pain and swelling near the heel
- inability to bend your foot forward or push off your injured leg
- inability to stand on the toes of your injured leg
- a snapping or popping sound when the injury happens.
Other conditions that are often linked to Achilles tendinitis include heel bursitis and Haglund’s deformity, a condition characterised by a bony growth when the Achilles heel attaches.
What causes Achilles tendon problems?
- exercising on hard or uneven surfaces
- exercising without warming up properly
- not resting enough between activities
- tight or weak calf muscles
- wearing unsupportive footwear or high heels
- sudden increase in physical activity or intensity
- getting older
- a family history of Achilles tendon problems
- having specific foot shapes (flat feet or hyperpronation)
- certain medications such as some antibiotics or steroids.
Achilles ruptures are usually caused by a sudden increase in the stress on your Achilles tendon and may occur when jumping, falling, or even stepping into a hole.
Diagnosing an Achilles tendon injury
It’s important to seek medical advice if you notice any of the symptoms of Achilles tendon injuries, or if you have any issues with your feet and ankles that affect your daily activities.
At The Foot Hub we use a comprehensive approach when diagnosing issues that affect the feet and ankles.
We start by conducting a clinical assessment where one of our friendly podiatrists will take a detailed medical history including your symptoms and current lifestyle. We’ll then thoroughly examine your foot and Achilles tendon to check for bone spurs, pain and swelling.
We will also assess your range of motion and may use imaging tests to reach a diagnosis. Our thorough approach means that we can make the correct diagnosis and put in place a personalised treatment plan aimed at minimising pain, and improving foot functionality.
Treatment for Achilles tendon
Achilles tendon problems can usually be managed without surgery, using a combination of home and podiatry treatments. These may involve:
- rest and reduction of aggravating activities
- application of icepacks to reduce swelling
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
- targeted exercises to strengthen your calf muscles
- taping of your foot and heel
- physical therapy
- shockwave therapy to promote healing in chronic cases.
- custom-made orthotics to reduce stress on the tendon.
If the injury is severe or does not respond to treatment measures outlined above, surgery may be required, although this is rare.
Long-term complications of Achilles tendon injuries
It’s important to receive the correct diagnosis and treatment for Achilles tendon injuries as this will help prevent further complications such as:
- severe pain
- difficulty walking or being active
- warping of your tendon area or heel bone
- tendon rupture from reinjury.
How can I prevent an Achilles tendon injury?
While it’s not always possible to prevent all injuries, the steps listed below with greatly reduce the risk of injuring your Achilles tendon.
- warm up properly before doing any physical activity
- gradually increase exercise duration and intensity, rather than all at once
- rest between workouts
- wear supportive shoes that are appropriate for the activity you’re participating in
- avoid exercising on uneven or hard surfaces
- stop activity if you feel pain
- do exercises to strengthen your calf muscles.
When should I see a podiatrist for Achilles tendon pain
Early intervention is key for a good outcome. If heel or ankle pain, swelling, stiffness, or weakness are interfering with your daily activities or exercise, it’s vital to book an appointment with one of our experienced podiatrists.
Professional assessment and tailored treatment can prevent long-term complications and restore function. At The Foot Hub, our podiatrists are highly experienced in diagnosing and managing Achilles tendon conditions.
If you feel pain in your Achilles tendon or are worried about symptoms described here, make an appointment today for expert assessment and care.
frequently asked questions
The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone which enables movement such as walking, running, and jumping.
The most common issues are Achilles tendinopathy (pain, inflammation and degeneration), and Achilles tendon rupture, which typically result from overuse or injury.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, or stiffness at the back of the ankle, especially during activity or first thing in the morning. You may also have trouble with walking or standing on tiptoe.
Anyone can be affected, but people who play sports, suddenly increase exercise, or have certain foot shapes, or wear unsupportive shoes, are at higher risk.
Treatments commonly include rest, ice, strengthening exercises, custom orthotics, and activity modification. Severe cases may require further intervention such as surgery.
If pain, swelling, or stiffness of the tendon lasts more than a few days, or if walking becomes difficult, it is important to book a professional assessment to prevent further injury and start the right treatment.
One of our friendly, experienced podiatrists will examine your feet, ask about symptoms and lifestyle, and diagnose the issues affecting your Achilles tendon. We’ll then develop a treatment plan to suit you.