Achilles tendinitis is one of the most common causes of heel and lower leg pain, affecting both athletes and individuals who spend long hours on their feet. The Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays a critical role in walking, running, and jumping. When this tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
At North Shore Foot & Ankle, our expert podiatrists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment options to relieve pain and restore healthy movement.
What Causes Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles tendinitis often develops due to repetitive stress on the tendon. Common causes include:
- Overuse injuries from sports such as running, basketball, or tennis
- Sudden increase in activity level without proper conditioning
- Tight calf muscles or poor flexibility
- Improper footwear lacking adequate support
- Foot structure issues such as flat feet or high arches
- Aging, as tendons naturally weaken over time
Signs and Symptoms
People with Achilles tendinitis often experience:
- Pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, especially in the morning
- Swelling along the tendon
- Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Tenderness when the tendon is squeezed
- Limited range of motion in the ankle
Treatment Options at North Shore Foot & Ankle
Our podiatry team creates personalized treatment plans, which may include:
- Rest and activity modification to reduce strain on the tendon
- Ice therapy to decrease inflammation and pain
- Supportive footwear or custom orthotics to improve alignment
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf and Achilles
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce discomfort
- Physical therapy for guided recovery
- Advanced therapies, such as shockwave therapy or regenerative treatments, when conservative care isn’t enough
- Surgical intervention in severe cases where tendon damage is significant
Early treatment is key to preventing chronic pain and potential tendon rupture.
Q&A: Achilles Tendinitis
Q: How do I know if my heel pain is from Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis?
A: Achilles tendinitis pain is located in the back of the heel and tendon, while plantar fasciitis pain is felt on the bottom of the heel. A podiatric exam and imaging can confirm the diagnosis.
Q: Can I keep exercising with Achilles tendinitis?
A: Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling may be possible, but high-impact activities (running, jumping) should be avoided until cleared by your podiatrist.
Q: How long does recovery take?
A: Mild cases may improve within a few weeks with rest and treatment. More severe or chronic cases may take several months to fully resolve.
Q: When should I see a doctor?
A: If pain persists beyond a few days of rest, worsens with activity, or is accompanied by swelling and stiffness, schedule a podiatry appointment promptly.
Q: Can Achilles tendinitis lead to rupture?
A: Yes. Untreated or severe tendinitis can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of rupture, which often requires surgery.
Contact North Shore Foot & Ankle
If you’re struggling with heel pain or think you may have Achilles tendinitis, the specialists at North Shore Foot & Ankle are here to help. We have multiple convenient locations across Long Island and Queens.
Website: northshorefootandankle.com
Lynbrook Podiatry Office
50 Hempstead Ave, Ste B, Lynbrook, NY 11563
📞 (516) 599-0302
Syosset Podiatry Office
175 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 300, Syosset, NY 11791
📞 (516) 496-7676
Flushing Podiatry Office
72-03 164 St., Flushing, NY 11365
📞 (718) 591-3320
Rosedale Podiatry Office
140-04 248 St, Rosedale, NY 11422
📞 (718) 949-4844
Plainview Podiatry Office
1144 Old Country Rd, Plainview, NY 11803
📞 (516) 942-0620
