Achilles Tendinopathy Treatment

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles — the gastrocnemius and soleus — to the heel bone. It is the largest tendon in the body and plays a critical role in walking, running, and jumping.

During running, the Achilles tendon can experience forces six to eight times your body weight with every stride.

Achilles tendinopathy occurs when the tendon becomes overloaded over time. Instead of properly repairing itself after repeated stress, the tendon begins to develop areas of weakened or disorganized tissue.

Unlike acute tendon inflammation (tendinitis), most chronic Achilles tendon injuries involve degeneration of the tendon tissue, which is why rest or anti-inflammatory treatments alone often fail to resolve the condition.

Achilles tendinopathy most commonly appears in two areas:

Achilles tendon pain often develops gradually and worsens with continued activity.

Common symptoms include:

Pain or stiffness at the back of the heel

Morning stiffness in the tendon

Pain during running or athletic activity

Tenderness when pressing on the tendon

Thickening or swelling of the tendon

Reduced push-off strength during walking or running

Pain with explosive movements such as sprinting or jumping

Many runners notice a pattern where the tendon loosens up early in activity but becomes sore afterward.

If symptoms persist for more than one to two weeks, evaluation by a sports medicine provider is recommended.