Achilles Tendinopathy - Dynamic Podiatry

Achilles Tendon Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Effective Treatments

If you’re experiencing pain at the back of your heel or lower calf, especially during or after walking, running or sport—you may be dealing with Achilles tendon pain.

This common condition can affect anyone, from elite athletes to weekend walkers, and can be slow to heal if not treated early and correctly. The good news? Our podiatrists specialise in accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment to get you moving again—pain-free.

What Is Achilles Tendon Pain?

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. It plays a vital role in walking, running and jumping.

Achilles tendon pain occurs when this tendon becomes irritated, inflamed or degenerated due to overuse, poor foot mechanics, or improper loading. This condition is often referred to as Achilles tendinopathy.

There are two common types:

Mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy – affects the tendon 2–6cm above the heel

Insertional Achilles tendinopathy – affects where the tendon attaches directly to the heel bone

Common Causes of Achilles Tendon Pain

Sudden increase in exercise or training load
Tight calf muscles
Poor foot biomechanics (e.g. flat feet or overpronation)
Weak glutes or poor pelvic control
Wearing unsupportive footwear
Running on hard or uneven surfaces
Inadequate warm-up or stretching
Age-related wear and tear

High-impact sports like basketball, running, tennis or football

Signs & Symptoms

Achilles tendon pain can start as a mild ache and gradually worsen. You may notice:

Pain or stiffness at the back of your heel or lower leg
Pain that’s worse in the morning or after periods of rest
Swelling, thickening or a visible lump along the tendon
Pain that flares up during or after exercise
Tenderness when touching or pressing on the tendon
Tight calves or reduced range of motion
A squeaking or creaking feeling when the tendon is moved (in some cases)

If left untreated, symptoms can become persistent and significantly affect your daily activities.

Treatment for Achilles Tendinopathy

At our podiatry clinic, we take a holistic and evidence-based approach to managing Achilles tendon injuries. Treatment is always tailored to your specific symptoms, activity level and goals.

Common treatments include:

Activity modification – Reducing or modifying aggravating activities like running or jumping

✅ Shockwave therapy – Stimulates healing in chronic tendon injuries and reduces pain

✅ Exercise rehabilitation – Eccentric calf loading exercises and strength work are essential

✅ Dry needling or soft tissue massage – Releases tight calf muscles and improves flexibility

✅ Footwear assessment – Ensuring your shoes provide the right support and cushioning

✅ Custom orthotics – Designed to correct foot posture and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon

✅ MLS laser therapy – Advanced pain relief and healing stimulation

✅ Heel lifts or strapping – Temporary support to reduce tendon load

Our goal is to help you heal quickly, prevent re-injury, and return to the activities you love—safely.

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Don’t Ignore Achilles Pain

If caught early, Achilles tendon pain is very treatable—but the longer you leave it, the more stubborn it becomes.

Ignoring it can lead to:

Tendon thickening or degeneration
Ongoing pain and stiffness
Partial or full tendon rupture (a serious injury)
Compensation injuries elsewhere in the body

How to Prevent Achilles Tendon Pain

Warm up before sport and stretch after activity
Strengthen your calves, glutes and core
Wear supportive, properly-fitted shoes
Avoid sudden spikes in activity or training intensity
Cross-train with low-impact activities like swimming or cycling

Address foot or gait issues early with a podiatrist

Need Help with Achilles Pain?

You don’t have to push through the pain. If you’re feeling stiffness or discomfort in your Achilles tendon—especially during exercise—it’s time to get assessed by a podiatrist.

Book an appointment today and take the first step toward a full recovery.

Why Choose Us?

We believe patients deserve more than just a quick fix. At Dynamic Podiatry, we focus on long-term solutions, education, and building trusted relationships.

Experienced & Friendly Podiatrists

Our team includes Scott Greenbank, Michaela and Sarah, each bringing unique expertise and compassionate care.

Advanced Technology

Including treadmill gait analysis with Sensor Medica pressure plate and video assessment for accurate diagnosis.

Custom Solutions

We prescribe orthotics, rehabilitation plans, and practical advice tailored to each individual.

On-Time & Professional

We value your time, and you’ll always receive a warm welcome and efficient care.

Family-Friendly Clinic

We treat patients of all ages, from toddlers to older adults.

We Treat a Range of Conditions

Whatever your foot or leg problem is, we take the time to get to the cause not just treat the symptoms and get you back on your feet again.

Podiatry Affiliations & Health Fund Partners

Ferny Hills Clinic

On-site parking available
Wheelchair accessible
Close to public transport

Address

Shop 1/135 Ferny Way,
Ferny Hills QLD 4055

Location

Opening Hours

MONDAY – 9.00am – 5.00pm

TUESDAY – 8.00am – 5.00pm

WEDNESDAY – 9.00am – 5.00pm

THURSDAY – 9.00am – 5.00pm

FRIDAY – 8.00am – 4.00pm

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Call 07 3351 8878

Call us (07) 3351 8878