ACHILLES PAIN
Pain or stiffness around the back of your heel or lower calf?
Achilles tendon discomfort can range from mild morning stiffness to sharp pain with walking, running, or stairs. Our podiatrists can assess the tendon and help reduce strain
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Does any of this sound familiar?
Achilles discomfort often develops gradually or following a sudden change in training. Common symptoms include:
- Stiffness or ache at the back of the ankle upon waking
- Pain that warms up with gentle movement but returns later
- Tenderness when gently squeezing the tendon above the heel
- Discomfort when pushing off the toes, walking uphill or taking stairs
- A localized thickening or swelling along the tendon
- Difficulty running or participating in sports
Early assessment can help prevent tendon symptoms from becoming chronic.
We'll evaluate how the tendon is loading and discuss appropriate management.
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POSSIBLE CAUSES
What may be causing Achilles pain?
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and bears significant load. Contributing factors can include:
Training load changes
Sudden increases in running distance, speed, or hill workouts can overload tendon capacity.
Calf muscle tightness
Reduced flexibility in the gastrocnemius and soleus increases tension on the tendon insertion.
Foot mechanics
Excessive pronation or foot alignment issues can cause torsional stress along the tendon fibres.
Footwear transitions
Switching to flatter shoes, zero-drop shoes, or worn running footwear can increase strain.
WHEN TO SEEK ASSESSMENT
When should you consider getting Achilles pain checked?
Consider arranging an assessment if:
- Pain at the back of your heel has persisted for over two weeks
- You notice localized swelling, thickening or warmth over the tendon
- Walking or running causes worsening discomfort
- Rest alone has not resolved the morning stiffness
- You want a structured rehabilitation plan to return to activity safely
YOUR APPOINTMENT
What happens when you come to see us?
We evaluate tendon health, movement patterns, and footwear to identify what is driving the pain
We listen
We review your symptom history, activity levels, and daily footwear.
We examine
Your podiatrist checks the tendon site, calf flexibility, and ankle range of motion.
We explain
We explain the stage of tendon irritation and what factors are contributing to load.
We plan
You receive guidance on load management, suitable exercises, and supportive care.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment depends on what we find
Achilles management focuses on restoring tendon load tolerance. Possible options include:
Not every treatment is appropriate for every patient. Your podiatrist will discuss suitable options after assessment.
- Progressive tendon loading exercises
- Shockwave therapy for chronic tendinopathy
- Biomechanical & gait assessment
- Temporary heel lifts or prescription orthotics
- Footwear guidance & modification
- Activity modification advice
We're here for you
Tired of Living With Pain? We Can Help
STEP 1 OF 2
Request a callback
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OUR CLINICIANS
You'll be seen by our podiatry team
Our clinicians assess a wide range of foot, ankle and lower-limb problems and will explain your options clearly.
Matthew Francis
Clinical Director / Managing Podiatrist
Megan Kelly
General & High Risk Foot Podiatrist
Yaw Nimoh
MSK, Sports & Advanced Practice Podiatrist
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FAQ
Achilles pain FAQs
READY TO GET STARTED?
Ready to get your Achilles pain assessed?
Book online at a time that suits you, or request a callback if you're unsure which appointment is right for you.