Achilles tendonitis

What is Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes overloaded. This strong tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays an important role in walking, jumping, and pushing off. When the load becomes too high or increases too quickly, small injuries can develop in the tendon tissue. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and irritation at the back of the ankle.

Although it is often referred to as inflammation, in many cases it is actually a form of tendon overload. When symptoms persist for a longer period of time, it may develop into chronic Achilles tendinitis.

Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis

The symptoms of Achilles tendinitis often develop gradually. Many people first notice mild stiffness or sensitivity during movement. Especially after periods of rest, such as when getting up in the morning, the tendon may feel stiff.

• Pain at the back of the ankle or heel
• Stiffness in the Achilles tendon when getting up
• Pain while walking, running, or exercising
• Sensitivity or thickening of the tendon
• More pain after physical activity or the following morning

Many people wonder how Achilles tendinitis feels. The tendon often feels tight, sensitive, and sometimes warm to the touch.

Causes of Achilles tendinitis

The cause of Achilles tendinitis is usually a combination of factors. The tendon experiences significant forces during everyday activities such as running, walking, and jumping.

A rapid increase in training intensity, tight calf muscles, or limited ankle mobility can increase the risk of symptoms. Changes in footwear or training on hard surfaces can also add extra strain. When the tendon does not have enough time to recover, irritation may occur.

What to do with Achilles tendinitis

Many people search for what to do when experiencing Achilles tendinitis. The most important step is to temporarily adjust the load without stopping movement completely.

Continue to move within pain limits and avoid high-impact activities such as sprinting or jumping. In many cases, walking is still possible as long as the pain does not clearly increase.

If symptoms persist, targeted Achilles tendinitis treatment can help address the underlying cause of the problem.

Treatment for Achilles tendinitis

Proper Achilles tendinitis treatment focuses on strengthening the tendon and improving its ability to handle load. This usually involves targeted exercises and a gradual increase in activity levels.

Treatment through physiotherapy may include:

• Targeted exercises for the calf muscles
• Mobility exercises for the ankle and foot
• Gradual strength and tendon loading exercises
• Advice on running technique and training load

In some cases, taping may provide temporary support. Methods such as taping the Achilles tendon can help reduce strain on the tendon during activities.

How long does Achilles tendinitis last?

Many people ask how long Achilles tendinitis lasts. Recovery time varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the symptoms.

Mild irritation may recover within a few weeks. When symptoms persist or when there is chronic Achilles tendinitis, recovery may take several months. With the right approach and exercises, the tendon can usually recover gradually.

When is surgery necessary?

In most cases, Achilles tendinitis can be treated without surgery. Only when symptoms persist for a long time and do not improve with exercises or physiotherapy might surgery be considered.

Fortunately, this is relatively rare, and most people recover with conservative treatment.

Frequently asked questions about Achilles tendinitis

What is Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes overloaded. The tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and experiences high loads during walking, jumping, and sports.

How does Achilles tendinitis feel?

Symptoms usually begin with stiffness or tenderness at the back of the ankle. Especially in the morning or after rest, the tendon may feel stiff.

What should you do if you have Achilles tendinitis?

It is important to temporarily reduce the load and allow the tendon to recover. Targeted exercises and guidance from a physiotherapist can support recovery.

Can you walk with Achilles tendinitis?

In many cases, walking with Achilles tendinitis is possible as long as the pain remains mild and does not increase during or after activity.

How long does Achilles tendinitis last?

Recovery time can range from several weeks to several months depending on the severity of the injury and the appropriate treatment.

Your next step

Do not continue walking around with pain for too long. Achilles tendinitis can recover well when the cause is addressed and the load is gradually rebuilt. With the right guidance, you can return to pain-free movement and sports.

Schedule an appointment with De Fysio Man and start working towards recovery of your Achilles tendon.