Pain at the back of the heel or lower calf can make walking, running or even standing uncomfortable. One of the most common causes of this type of heel and calf pain is Achilles tendinopathy, a condition we regularly treat at our physiotherapy clinics in Surrey.
What is Achilles tendinopathy?
The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue at the back of the leg that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It plays a crucial role in walking, running, jumping, and pushing off the ground.
Achilles tendinopathy occurs when this tendon becomes irritated or overloaded over time. Rather than a sudden injury, it usually develops gradually due to repeated stress.
Common causes
Achilles tendinopathy often develops due to a combination of factors, including:
- Sudden increase in activity or training intensity
- Running or exercising on hard or uneven surfaces
- Tight calf muscles
- Poor footwear with a lack of support
- Biomechanical issues such as flat feet or overpronation
- Reduced strength or flexibility
- Age-related changes in tendon tissue
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms can vary but commonly include:
- Pain or stiffness in the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Tenderness or thickening of the tendon
- Swelling around the back of the ankle
- Reduced ankle strength or flexibility
Early symptoms may feel mild, but without treatment, they can become more persistent and limiting.
Should you keep exercising through the pain?
This is a common question. Complete rest is rarely the answer, but continuing high-load or painful activities can delay healing.
A physiotherapist can safely help you:
- Adapt activity
- Reduce pain without losing strength
- Gradually reload the tendon in a controlled way
How Physiotherapy helps Achilles tendinopathy
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for Achilles tendinopathy. At our clinics in Surrey, treatment is tailored to you. At your initial assessment, our physiotherapists will assess your movement, strength, flexibility (as well as training habits, if applicable) to identify contributing factors. Your treatment will be based on the pain and restrictions in movement you are experiencing, also taking into account your medical background. Treatment may include:
- Load Management
One of the most important parts of recovery is finding the right balance between being active enough to maintain strength without overloading the tendon. - Strengthening Exercises
Progressive calf and lower-limb strengthening exercises are essential for tendon healing and long-term resilience. - Mobility and Flexibility Work
Improving ankle and calf mobility can reduce excessive strain on the tendon. - Manual Therapy
Hands-on treatment may help reduce pain, improve movement, and support your rehab program. - Return-to-Activity Guidance
Whether your goal is returning to a sport or simply being able to walk comfortably again, rehab should be tailored to what matters to you.
How long does recovery from Achilles tendinopathy take?
Recovery time varies depending on:
- Severity of symptoms
- How long the pain has been present
- Activity levels
- Consistency with rehab exercises
Many people notice improvement within 6-12 weeks, but full recovery can take longer. Early treatment usually leads to faster recovery and better outcomes.
When should you see a Physiotherapist?
You should seek physiotherapy if:
- Achilles pain lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain is worsening or limiting daily activities
- You feel stiffness every morning
- You want to return to sport safely
Ignoring tendon pain can increase the risk of long-term problems or tendon rupture.
Get Help for Achilles Pain in Surrey
Achilles tendinopathy doesn’t have to stop you from staying active. With the right physiotherapy approach, most people recover well and return to the activities they enjoy.
If you’re experiencing Achilles pain, our physiotherapy team is here to help. Book an assessment and take the first step toward a stronger, pain-free recovery. If you would like to speak to a physiotherapist, then please get in touch. Book an appointment with a physio online.
