The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. Despite its strength, it is susceptible to overuse injury - particularly in active individuals, runners, and those who have recently increased their activity level. Achilles tendinopathy encompasses conditions ranging from acute tendinitis (inflammation) to chronic tendinosis (tendon degeneration).
At Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, we provide thorough assessment and evidence-based treatment for Achilles tendon problems, combining biomechanical correction with structured rehabilitation.
Types of Achilles Tendinopathy
Mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy – Pain 2–6 cm above the heel, the most common location, typically due to repetitive overload.
Insertional Achilles tendinopathy – Pain at the point where the tendon inserts into the heel bone. Often associated with bone spurs (Haglund's deformity) and is more resistant to treatment.
Achilles tendinitis – Acute inflammation of the tendon, often following a sudden increase in activity.
Symptoms
Morning stiffness – Stiffness and aching in the back of the heel and lower leg, particularly with the first steps of the day.
Activity-related pain – Pain that starts with exercise, may improve as the tendon warms up, then worsens afterwards.
Swelling and thickening – Visible swelling or a palpable nodule within the tendon.
Stiffness after rest – Prolonged sitting or driving can cause the tendon to stiffen up.
Risk Factors
Sudden increase in activity – A rapid rise in training load is the most common cause.
Flat feet – Excessive rolling in of the foot during walking and running increases Achilles tendon strain.
Calf muscle tightness – Reduced ankle dorsiflexion places increased load on the tendon.
Inadequate footwear – Flat, unsupportive shoes offer no heel lift or cushioning.
Age and weight – Tendons become less resilient with age; excess weight increases loading.
Treatment at Deal Podiatry
Load management – Careful guidance on activity modification to maintain fitness while allowing the tendon to recover.
Eccentric exercise programme – The gold-standard rehabilitation protocol for Achilles tendinopathy, gradually re-loading and strengthening the tendon.
Orthotic therapy – Heel lifts reduce Achilles tendon strain, and orthoses address overpronation and calf tightness.
Footwear advice – Shoes with an appropriate heel drop and support reduce tendon stress.
Taping – Short-term supportive taping to offload the tendon.
Referral – For resistant cases, referral to physiotherapy, sports medicine, or orthopaedics for further investigation or shockwave therapy.
Related Treatments at Deal Podiatry
Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent offers the following podiatry treatments to support Achilles tendinopathy recovery:
Book Your Achilles Assessment at Deal Podiatry
Achilles tendinopathy responds well to the right treatment. Early intervention prevents chronic tendon damage. Contact Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent for expert assessment, orthotic support, and a structured rehabilitation programme.