NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE
Achilies Tendinopathy
Achilles Tendinopathy is a condition characterised by pain, swelling and weakness of the Achilles tendon.
Pain may be located on the back of your heel bone or slightly above it.
What causes Achilies Tendon pain?
Some of the most common causes of Achilles tendon pain are as follows:
Common Causes include:
- Wearing ill-fitting or badly styled footwear, such as high heels, hard thin soles or soles that are too soft
- Being overweight
- If you have recently started being more active/increased your activity level
- Activities/occupations that involve placing large amounts of pressure and/or strain on the foot and ankle, such as running or jumping
- Tight or weak muscles in the lower leg and/or foot
- Direct injury
- Foot deformity
- Arthritis in the foot or ankle
- Some underlying medical conditions
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pain on initial steps or after a period of rest, particularly first thing in the morning
- Pain can be felt during exercise but is often worse after
- Swelling and/or pain around the tendon or calf
- Pain on touch or pressure from footwear
What can I do to help myself?
It is important to try to work out what leads to your pain. Avoiding the causes or triggers of painful symptoms is one of the most important parts of helping your recovery.
Consider the following options:
Footwear
Modify activity levels
Ice packs
Aim for a healthy body weight
Pain medication
Being patient
Excercises
Seated Heel Raises
Double Leg Heel Raises
Heel Raises (Off a Step)
What if my symptoms fail to resolve?
Achilles tendinopathy can take time to improve and there is no overnight cure. Most people improve within six months. However, it can take up to a year in some people.
If your symptoms are worsening or you are concerned, seek advice from a podiatrist.
NHS 24 MSK Help app
Free app with further exercise guidance and self-management support for MSK conditions. Available on the App Store and Google Play.
Self-Referral Form
CONTACT INFORMATION
NHS Lothian Podiatry
Mon-Thu: 8:30am-4pm
Fri: 8am-3:30pm
Telephone: (0131) 536 1627
ABOUT US
Podiatrists are allied healthcare professionals trained to help prevent, diagnose, and treat problems affecting your feet and lower limbs.
Podiatry’s primary aim is to improve the mobility, independence, and quality of life for their patients.
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