ACHILLES TENDON INJURIES.

Achilles tendon injuries can range from mild inflammation (tendinitis) to a partial or complete tear.

Written under the guidance of Jack Holland, Chartered Physiotherapist and Sports Therapist (BSc, MSc, MCSP, MAAP), supporting patients across Wickford, Basildon, Rayleigh and South Essex.

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). It is responsible for transmitting the force generated by the calf muscles to the foot, enabling walking, running, and jumping. However, it is also prone to injury, especially in athletes who participate in sports that involve jumping or sudden changes in

direction.

Achilles tendon injuries can range from inflammation (tendinopathy) to a partial or complete tear.  Additionally, achilles tendinopathy can be divided into insertional (where it attaches to the bone) or non insertional (a few centimetres above the bone).

Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Injuries

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or running.

Pain is often felt at the back of the heel or lower calf and may be worse during activity or first thing in the morning. Some people notice stiffness when getting out of bed or after periods of rest, which gradually eases as they start moving.

Swelling or thickening around the tendon may develop over time, and the area can feel tender to touch. In more severe cases, pain may limit your ability to push off through the foot, climb stairs, or continue with sport and exercise.

If a tear has occurred, symptoms can be more sudden and intense, sometimes accompanied by a sharp pain, weakness, or difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

How to Treat Achilles Tendon Injuries

At Wickford Physiotherapy we are very effective at treating Achilles tendon injuries. The treatment approach typically involves a combination of manual therapy techniques, exercise therapy, and modalities such as ice, shockwave or laser therapy or acupuncture.

Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation, joint mobilisation, and stretching can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve range of motion, and restore normal joint mechanics. Exercise therapy is also an important component of physiotherapy for Achilles tendon injuries. Specific exercises can help to strengthen the muscles around the ankle joint, improve flexibility, and promote healing of the damaged tendon.

Modalities such as ice, shockwave or laser therapy can also be used to reduce pain and inflammation and promote tissue healing. One of our skilled physiotherapists will prescribe a treatment plan based on the severity of your injury and your individual needs and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does recovery take?

This depends on the severity. Mild irritation may improve within a few weeks, while more persistent symptoms may take longer.

2. Can I continue exercising?

Yes — with guidance. We’ll help you stay active with safe, appropriate exercises.

3. Will I need surgery?

Most Achilles injuries improve with physiotherapy. Surgery is only required in rare cases.

4. Are shockwave or laser therapies uncomfortable?

Most people find these treatments comfortable, with little to no discomfort.

5. Can Achilles injuries happen again?

They can, but strengthening the tendon and improving flexibility significantly reduces the risk. We’ll guide you on footwear and activity adjustments to help prevent recurrence.

Book an Appointment for Achilles Tendon Pain

If you are experiencing Achilles tendon pain or have been diagnosed with an Achilles tendon injury, call us now to book, so our physiotherapists can treat you effectively and get you pain free and back to what you enjoy doing best faster.