Condition
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles Tendinopathy, often referred to as Achilles Tendonitis, is a common condition affecting the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It typically develops when the tendon becomes overloaded, irritated, or strained over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function.
Many patients experience pain or tightness at the back of the heel or lower calf, particularly during walking, running, exercise, or after periods of rest. Symptoms may begin gradually and worsen if left untreated.
At Celtic Podiatry, we provide detailed assessment, diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans designed to reduce pain, improve movement, and support long-term tendon recovery.
Condition
What Causes Achilles Tendinopathy?
Achilles tendon pain is commonly caused by repetitive strain and overload placed on the tendon.
Common contributing factors include:
- Sudden increases in exercise or activity
- Running or sports-related overuse
- Tight calf muscles
- Poor foot mechanics or overpronation
- Reduced ankle mobility
- Inadequate recovery between activity
- Unsupportive footwear
- Flat feet or biomechanical abnormalities
- Muscle weakness or imbalance
- Long periods of standing or walking
Over time, repeated stress can lead to degeneration and irritation within the tendon, making daily activities increasingly uncomfortable.
Common Symptoms
Patients with Achilles Tendinopathy / Tendonitis may experience:
- Pain at the back of the heel or ankle
- Morning stiffness in the tendon or calf
- Pain during walking, running, or exercise
- Tenderness when touching the tendon
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon
- Tightness in the calf muscles
- Pain after activity or prolonged standing
- Reduced strength or flexibility
Symptoms can affect both active individuals and non-sporting patients alike.
Condition
How Celtic Podiatry Can Help
At Celtic Podiatry, we focus on identifying the underlying cause of Achilles tendon pain to create an effective and personalised treatment plan.
Your assessment may include:
- Clinical examination
- Foot posture and gait analysis
- Footscan pressure analysis
- Biomechanical assessment
- Assessment of calf strength and flexibility
- Footwear assessment and lifestyle advice
Following diagnosis, treatment options may include:
- Shockwave therapy using the Zimmer enPuls 2.0 system
- Laser therapy using the ASA MHi system
- Phits 3D-printed orthotics
- FootBalance insoles
- Padding and strapping
- Foot and ankle compression supports
- Rehabilitation and strengthening programmes
- Stretching and mobility exercises
- Footwear guidance and activity modification
Advanced Treatment Options
At Celtic Podiatry, we use modern evidence-based treatments to support healing and tendon recovery.
Shockwave Therapy
Our Zimmer enPuls 2.0 Shockwave Therapy system helps stimulate healing, improve circulation, and reduce chronic tendon pain.
Laser Therapy
The ASA MHi laser system uses advanced MLS laser technology to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and accelerate tissue repair. A pain free non-invasive treatment option to accelerate your treatment pathway and get you better quicker.
Orthotic Therapy
Custom orthotics and insoles can help improve foot mechanics, reduce strain on the Achilles tendon, and support long-term recovery. At Celtic Podiatry we offer a range of insole & orthotic options ranging from off the shelf / over the counter products, Footbalance custom insoles and Phits 3D printed elite orthotics.
Condition
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
It is important to seek assessment if you experience:
- Persistent Achilles tendon pain
- Morning stiffness or tightness
- Pain during walking, running, or exercise
- Swelling or thickening around the tendon
- Difficulty remaining active
- Recurring tendon injuries
- Pain affecting work, sport, or daily activities
Early assessment and treatment can help prevent symptoms from progressing and reduce the risk of long-term tendon problems.
Need Help With Achilles Tendon Pain?
Book an appointment with our experienced podiatry team for professional assessment, diagnosis, and personalised treatment designed to help you return to comfortable movement and activity.
We also offer flexible membership options designed to make ongoing podiatry treatment and rehabilitation more affordable and accessible.
What We Treat
A Patient-First Experience Designed around Total Comfort & Accessibility
