Book an appointment with Dr Foot Podiatry Clinic using SetMore Achilles Heel Pain | Achilles Tendonitis - Dr Foot
Home > Foot Conditions > Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis, Heel Pain

Introduction to Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition that can cause Achilles Heel Pain with every step you take. As the name suggests Achilles tendonitis affects the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon connects the heel of the foot to the calf muscles.

Understanding this condition

Symptoms include pain which may be present at the Achilles tendon during activity and may also increase once activity has ceased. Tenderness can usually be felt along the course of the tendon and in some cases there may be the presence of a localized nodule (small sack of fluid) on the tendon. Another sign to look for is that the soles of shoes tend to wear out quickly around the heel region.

 

Achilles Pain

Causes of Achilles Pain

  • The biggest contributing factor is ignoring the pain in the tendon.
  • Achilles pain commonly occurs from shearing and stretching forces placed on the Achilles tendon. Excess pronation (rolling over of the foot) causes extra strain on the tendon. Inflammation of the tendon is a common result along with tightening of the calf muscles. Since the calf muscles are connected to the Achilles tendon, the Achilles turns out to be the 'weakest link' in the chain. The Achilles tendon ends up being overstretched, resulting in irritation and inflammation. Dr Foot Orthotics help prevent over pronation by reducing the strain on the Achilles tendons by resting the tendons and providing them with an opportunity to heal.
  • Sudden increases in training can lead to Achilles tendonitis.
  • Excessive hill running or speed work.
  • Inappropriate shoes. If the soles of the shoes are too stiff, this causes the forefoot to have limited movement. This can lead to increased tension to the Achilles tendon.
  • Studies have shown that excessive heel cushioning can be a contributing factor. Air filled heels are not very good for Achilles tendonitis.
  • Tight calf muscles.
  • Women who take up running are at a greater risk. This mainly affects women who wear high-heeled shoes, which effectively shortens the Achilles tendon. When the individual then takes up running in "flat shoes", the Achilles tendon is put under increased tension.

Treatment for Achilles Pain

  • The most common cause of Achilles pain is over pronation, this is when your foot rotates in too much as you walk. You really need to treat the underlying cause of the Achilles pain as soon as possible to prevent any further damage. View the Dr Foot Sport Insoles , which are for sport shoes or the Dr Foot Pro Insoles for everyday shoes.
  • Cut back on your training routine.
  • Reduce hill and speed running.
  • Avoid excessively flat shoes and try not to walk bare foot too much.
  • Achilles heel gel pad moulds to the foot, securing the polymer gel pad at the Achilles tendon to absorb pressure and friction. This pad provides relief from Achilles tendonitis. View product here
  • We cannot emphasize strongly enough how important stretching is, to prevent & treat Achilles tendoni tis. There are many stretches that are commonly done such as the Achilles or calf stretch but a localized way of stretching the Achilles tendon can be done by using a device specifically designed to stretch this region. View the Pro Stretch here
  • Doctors have known for years that the alternating application of heat and cold along with gentle massage to the Achilles area works wonders to relieve pain, reduce swelling and promote healing. View the Reusable Hot & Cold Packs here. In most cases the hot and cold pack coupled with supportive sports insoles will provide an effective treatment option for Achilles pain.

Dr Foot Recommends

BEST SELLER Dr Foot's Sport Insoles (pair)

£ 25.00

Dr Foot Custom Insoles (pair)

£ 30.00

Review: Ease the pain of Achilles Tendonitis

Experience immediate relief from Achilles tendonitis and return to your normal activity level. Achilles pain commonly occurs from shearing and stretching forces placed on the achilles tendon. Over pronation (rolling over of the foot) causes extra strain on the tendon.

Dr Foot insoles control excess pronation and significantly reduce the shearing and stretching forces on the Achilles tendon.

Dr Foot

A quick, Secure and Easy to use Foot Store



Latest News
Ask the specialist
Latest News
Ask the specialist

Video Gallery

Customer Review

"I have just received your Achilles tendon support and after 48 hours the difference is phenomenal. I need to walk as I have heart disease and have been hobbling so badly with a painful tendon for quite a while thus not getting my exercise. I felt the difference immediately. Thank you very much."


Philip Taylor, UK