The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. When it becomes irritated or overloaded, you may feel pain at the back of your heel or along the tendon, especially when walking uphill, running, or pushing off your foot. Stiffness after rest is also common.
Achilles tendonitis often follows a sudden increase in activity, such as running more miles, adding hills, or returning to sports after time off. Tight calf muscles, changes in footwear, and the way your foot moves can also place extra strain on the tendon.
Pain can occur along the tendon above the heel or where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. Identifying the location matters because the most helpful exercises and treatment options may differ.
Common symptoms include:
Your evaluation may include:
Same-day appointments are often available for new and existing patients.
Treatment depends on how long you have had symptoms, where the pain is located, and how the tendon responds to activity.
If symptoms persist despite a consistent treatment plan, we can reassess the diagnosis and discuss additional options. Surgery is generally considered only for select cases that have not improved with non-surgical care.
No. Achilles tendon pain is usually felt at the back of the heel or along the tendon above it. Plantar fasciitis typically causes pain under the heel. An exam can help identify which condition is causing your symptoms.
It depends on your symptoms and the activity. You may need to reduce running, jumping, or hill workouts while the tendon recovers. We can help you plan a gradual return to activity rather than guessing how much is too much.
Recovery varies. Symptoms that developed recently may improve sooner than pain that has persisted for months. Tendons often need a gradual strengthening program, so improvement may take time even after you begin treatment.
Stretching can be an important part of Achilles tendon treatment. However, the right type and amount of stretching depends on where your pain is located and how your tendon responds to loading. Your podiatrist can determine which stretches and exercises are appropriate for your specific condition and help you progress safely.
Schedule an evaluation if pain keeps returning, limits your walking or exercise, or does not improve with reduced activity. Seek prompt care if the pain began suddenly with a pop or you cannot push off your foot normally.
Whether Achilles pain is interrupting your workouts or making daily walks uncomfortable, Solterra Foot and Ankle can help you identify the cause and take the next step toward relief.
