Achilles Tendon Pain
Achilles tendon pain is common in people who walk or run regularly, and in those who play court and field sports. The tendon can become sore, stiff and slow to settle if it is taking more load than it can comfortably handle.
Typical symptoms
People often report:
- Pain or stiffness at the back of the heel or just above it
- Morning stiffness that eases once moving, then returns later in the day
- Pain when walking up hills, stairs or running
- Thickening or tenderness when the tendon is squeezed
Symptoms may build up over time or follow a change in training, footwear or activity.
Why the Achilles becomes painful
Most ongoing Achilles problems are due to tendinopathy – changes in the tendon from repeated overload rather than a one-off tear. Contributing factors can include:
- Rapid increases in walking or running distance, pace or hills
- Calf weakness or poor endurance
- Foot and ankle mechanics that increase strain on the tendon
- Inadequate recovery between sessions
Less commonly, pain may be due to bursitis, partial tears or other systemic issues, which we keep in mind during assessment.
How we assess Achilles tendon pain
Assessment focuses on the tendon itself and how the leg is loading. We typically:
- Take a detailed history of training, work and previous injuries
- Palpate the tendon and surrounding structures
- Assess calf strength, endurance and ankle mobility
- Observe walking, and where appropriate running or sport-specific movement
- Review footwear and training surfaces
When needed, we discuss imaging or onward referral with your GP or specialist.
Treatment options we may recommend
Management is structured and progressive. It may include:
- Load management – adjusting training volume, intensity and surfaces
- Progressive strengthening of the calf and surrounding muscles
- Footwear changes or orthotics to improve load through the tendon
- Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) for persistent tendinopathy
- Laser therapy or dry needling for selected cases
- Injection therapies when conservative care alone is not enough
- Overall guidance as part of a musculoskeletal foot and ankle assessment
Who we commonly see
We see active adults, recreational runners, walkers increasing their distance and people returning to sport after a break. Many have had symptoms for months and are unsure how far they can safely push.
Local Achilles tendon treatment in Forest Hill
Our clinic in Brentford Square, Forest Hill, regularly sees patients with Achilles tendon pain from nearby suburbs such as Nunawading and Mitcham.
Book an appointment for Achilles tendon pain
If Achilles pain is limiting your walking, running or sport, a structured plan can make a significant difference. You can book a musculoskeletal assessment online or contact the clinic for an appointment.
