Pain at the back of the heel or lower leg can make walking, climbing stairs, exercising, and even standing on your toes uncomfortable. One common cause is irritation of the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.

Achilles tendon pain may develop gradually from overuse or appear suddenly after an injury. In some cases, it reflects inflammation or degeneration. In others, it may indicate a partial tear or complete rupture that requires prompt medical attention.

Bay Podiatry Associates in Brooklyn, NY evaluates Achilles tendon pain and other foot and ankle conditions to help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body.

It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays an important role in walking, running, climbing stairs, jumping, and pushing off the ground.

Because it handles substantial force, the tendon can become irritated or injured.

What Does Achilles Tendon Pain Feel Like?

Symptoms may include:

• Pain at the back of the heel
• Pain several inches above the heel
• Morning stiffness
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Pain during running or jumping
• Discomfort when climbing stairs
• Pain when standing on the toes
• Tightness in the calf

Symptoms may begin mildly and gradually worsen.

What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis generally refers to pain and inflammation involving the tendon.

In many chronic cases, tendon degeneration rather than active inflammation may play a larger role, and the term Achilles tendinopathy may be used.

The condition is often associated with repetitive stress.

What Causes Achilles Tendon Problems?

Potential contributing factors include:

• Sudden increases in activity
• Running or jumping sports
• Tight calf muscles
• Limited ankle flexibility
• Changes in footwear
• Training on hills
• Repetitive overuse
• Abnormal foot mechanics
• Aging-related tendon changes

Sometimes several factors are involved.

What Is Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy?

Insertional Achilles problems occur where the tendon attaches to the heel bone.

Patients may feel pain directly at the back of the heel, especially when wearing shoes that press on the area.

Bone prominence or calcification may also be present in some cases.

What Is a Midportion Achilles Tendon Problem?

Midportion symptoms occur higher up the tendon, usually several centimeters above the heel.

This type of pain is common in runners and active adults.

The tendon may feel thickened or tender in the affected area.

How Do You Know if the Achilles Tendon Is Torn?

A complete Achilles rupture often causes sudden pain, sometimes described as feeling like being kicked or struck in the back of the ankle.

Patients may hear or feel a pop and have difficulty pushing off the foot or standing on the toes.

A suspected rupture should be evaluated promptly.

Can You Walk With an Achilles Tear?

Some people can still walk after a partial or even complete rupture, so the ability to walk does not rule out a serious injury.

Weakness during push-off and difficulty standing on the toes are important warning signs.

How Is Achilles Tendon Pain Diagnosed?

A podiatrist may evaluate:

• Exact pain location
• Tendon tenderness
• Swelling
• Strength
• Range of motion
• Calf tightness
• Ability to push off
• Foot structure
• Walking pattern

Imaging may be recommended when a tear, degeneration, or other structural problem is suspected.

How Is Achilles Tendon Pain Treated?

Treatment depends on the diagnosis and severity.

Conservative care may include:

• Activity modification
• Stretching or rehabilitation
• Footwear changes
• Heel lifts in selected cases
• Orthotics when appropriate
• Medications when medically suitable
• Temporary immobilization in some cases

More significant tendon injuries may require additional treatment.

Can You Exercise With Achilles Tendon Pain?

Continuing high-impact activity through significant pain may worsen the condition.

A modified exercise plan may be appropriate while the tendon heals.

The safest level of activity depends on the diagnosis.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Seek evaluation if Achilles pain persists, repeatedly returns, worsens with activity, or limits normal walking.

Sudden pain with a pop, weakness, or inability to push off should be evaluated promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Achilles Tendon Pain

Why does my Achilles tendon hurt in the morning?

The tendon may become stiff after inactivity, making the first steps of the day uncomfortable.

Is Achilles tendonitis the same as a strain?

Not exactly. Tendonitis or tendinopathy usually develops from overuse, while a strain or tear may involve sudden tissue injury.

Can Achilles tendon pain go away on its own?

Mild symptoms may improve with appropriate rest and activity modification, but persistent pain should be evaluated.

Can tight calves cause Achilles pain?

Yes. Limited flexibility can increase stress on the Achilles tendon.

Can flat feet contribute to Achilles problems?

Certain biomechanical patterns may increase stress on the tendon.

Can orthotics help Achilles tendon pain?

They may help selected patients when foot mechanics contribute to symptoms.

Should I stretch a painful Achilles tendon?

Stretching may help in some cases but may not be appropriate for every injury. Treatment should depend on the diagnosis.

What does an Achilles rupture feel like?

It may cause sudden sharp pain, a popping sensation, and significant weakness during push-off.

Is Achilles tendon pain common in runners?

Yes. Running and jumping activities can place repeated stress on the tendon.

Contact Information

If pain at the back of your heel or ankle is interfering with walking or exercise, Bay Podiatry Associates can evaluate whether Achilles tendonitis, a strain, or another tendon problem may be responsible.

Bay Podiatry Associates
8635 21 St Ave Suite 1C
Brooklyn, NY 11214
Phone: (718) 266-1986
Website: baypodiatrybrooklyn.com

Book Online: baypodiatrybrooklyn.com/appointments/