Achilles Tendonitis is characterised by pain and swelling behind the heel, ankle, or lower leg caused by inflammation of the tendon. It occurs most frequently after a sudden increase in activity without adequate training or conditioning. Changing footwear, occupation, work, or playing surfaces can also lead to inflammation and pain in the achilles area.
Pain or discomfort from Achilles tendonitis can sometimes radiate to areas beyond the achilles tendon itself and is often mistaken for bursitis—a painful swelling of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates areas where tendons, ligaments, skin, muscles, or bones rub against each other in the ankle and foot. The achilles tendon insertion area has two bursa which can become inflamed; the retrocalcaneal bursa (sits between the heel bone and the tendon) and the subcutaneous bursa (sits between the achilles tendon and the skin). One or both may become irritated by a similar mechanism of injury that results in achilles tendonitis. Symptoms, causes, and treatment options for bursitis can overlap with those of achilles tendonitis. To receive an accurate diagnosis, reaching out to a qualified podiatrist can rule out any other conditions.
Pain or discomfort from Achilles tendonitis can sometimes radiate to areas beyond the achilles tendon itself and is often mistaken for bursitis—a painful swelling of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates areas where tendons, ligaments, skin, muscles, or bones rub against each other in the ankle and foot. The achilles tendon insertion area has two bursa which can become inflamed; the retrocalcaneal bursa (sits between the heel bone and the tendon) and the subcutaneous bursa (sits between the achilles tendon and the skin). One or both may become irritated by a similar mechanism of injury that results in achilles tendonitis. Symptoms, causes, and treatment options for bursitis can overlap with those of achilles tendonitis. To receive an accurate diagnosis, reaching out to a qualified podiatrist can rule out any other conditions.
Symptoms of achilles tendonitis include:
Pain triggers:
Exercise impact:
Achilles tendonitis is primarily caused by the overuse of the tendon, especially if there has been a change in exercise routine or lifestyle. The main contributing factors include:
Diagnosing achilles tendonitis can be challenging, so prompt and accurate treatment is essential for proper recovery. A podiatrist’s expertise can guide you in making informed decisions and lifestyle adjustments to support effective management and healing of the injury to avoid the possibility of experiencing achilles tendon ruptures.
Your medical history and a physical exam of your foot and heel will determine the diagnosis. Treating this injury depends on the extent of the tendon pain and the frequency of the pain occurring.
Your podiatrist will tailor your treatment to you; however, here are a few methods for treating Achilles tendonitis:
If caught early, this injury can be effectively treated at home, but you need to be proactive about your recovery. Typically, a sore achilles tendon indicates inflammation in the tendon, but it’s still crucial to monitor the injury, in case it turns out to be a torn achilles tendon.
Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry is an established clinic with an excellent reputation in each of our five Queensland clinics. You can book your podiatrist achilles tendonitis treatment appointment with a caring podiatrist from our team at any of our locations, which include:
Our clinics are conveniently located and easy to access, so you can easily schedule appointments at your nearest location.
We provide a comprehensive approach to foot health, covering all aspects, from diagnosing and treating achilles tendonitis to educating patients on preventive measures for long-term well-being.
We focus on a people-centered approach. We take time to listen to your unique concerns and customise our services to ensure your treatment plan is aimed at long-term recovery.
Our podiatrists create personalised treatment plans tailored to your condition and lifestyle, using various therapies to help you live free from heel pain and discomfort.
Our team of experienced podiatrists provides high-quality care, staying current with the latest advancements to ensure effective treatments for all foot and ankle conditions.
We utilise state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, enhancing patient outcomes and streamlining your experience. We are constantly expanding our treatment options and using technology to treat and diagnose achilles tendonitis faster.
Ready to give your feet the care they deserve? Book your appointment online or call us and experience our expert podiatry services at any of our six clinic locations.
