Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendon pain is one of the most common overuse injuries we see at Peak Podiatry Subiaco, affecting runners, active adults, and even those who’ve suddenly increased their daily activity. The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and plays a crucial role in walking, running, and jumping. When this tendon becomes overloaded or irritated, it can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain—particularly noticeable during your first steps in the morning or after exercise.

How Achilles pain presents can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Some people notice a gradual onset of tightness at the back of the heel, while others feel a sharp, localized pain during activity. You might also experience warmth, thickening of the tendon, or difficulty pushing off when walking. In more chronic cases, the tendon may feel tender to touch and symptoms often worsen after periods of rest. Early identification is key, as continuing to train through the pain can lead to tendon degeneration.

At Peak Podiatry Subiaco, assessment focuses on identifying contributing factors such as calf tightness, foot posture, training errors, and footwear. A thorough biomechanical examination allows us to pinpoint the cause and tailor a targeted management plan. Often, the issue isn’t just the tendon—it may be how the foot and ankle function together during movement.

Treatment typically includes a structured loading program to safely strengthen the tendon, guided calf stretches, manual therapy, and activity modification to prevent flare-ups. Supportive footwear or custom foot orthotics may also help improve biomechanics and reduce stress on the tendon. For stubborn or long-standing cases, we may incorporate shockwave therapy to stimulate healing. With the right approach and consistency, most people make a strong recovery and return to activity pain-free.

If you’re experiencing Achilles tendon pain, it’s best not to ignore the early signs. Our team at Peak Podiatry Subiaco can help you get back on your feet with a personalised treatment plan.