Struggling with heel pain after running?
You might be dealing with Achilles Tendinopathy, one of the most common overuse injuries in Perth’s runners. In this blog, WA Health Group physio Joshua Wong breaks down the causes, symptoms, recovery timeline, and how physiotherapy can help you return to running safely and confidently.
Index
What is Achilles Tendinopathy?
Common Symptoms of Achilles Tendinopathy
What causes Achilles Tendinopathy?
Why do runners commonly develop Achilles Tendinopathy?
How can physio help Achilles Tendinopathy?
Recovery timeline for Achilles Tendinopathy
When can you start running again?
FAQs About Achilles Tendinopathy
Introduction
Do you feel pain or stiffness at the back of your heel, especially when you wake up or after a run? You may be dealing with Achilles Tendinopathy, a common overuse injury seen in runners and active individuals across Perth.
This condition often develops gradually. Without the right support, it can linger for weeks or even months. The good news is that most runners recover fully with a clear and consistent physiotherapy plan.
What is Achilles Tendinopathy?
Achilles tendinopathy occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes irritated or overloaded. This tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel and is essential for running, walking, and jumping.
Unlike an acute tear or rupture, tendinopathy is a result of repeated stress on the tendon. It is common in runners who push their mileage, speed, or terrain too quickly.
Common Symptoms of Achilles Tendinopathy
- Pain or tightness at the back of the heel that occurs at the start of a run, typically easing as the run continues.
- Stiffness when walking, especially in the morning
- Tenderness or thickening along the tendon
- Pain during or after running
- Calf tightness
- Limited ankle flexibility
Not sure if your pain is from Achilles tendinopathy? You can book a complimentary assessment with one of our physios across Perth for a clear diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
What causes Achilles Tendinopathy?
This condition typically develops over time and can be triggered by:
- Sudden increase in running volume or intensity
- Hill running or uneven terrain
- Worn-out or unsupportive footwear
- Weak and/or tight calves
- Insufficient rest and recovery
- Previous injuries or poor load management
Why do runners commonly develop Achilles Tendinopathy?
The Achilles tendon plays a major role in propelling you forward during each stride. Runners who increase their training load without enough strength or recovery place excess stress on the tendon.
We often see Perth runners develop symptoms after training on hard surfaces, switching shoes, or adding hills to their program without proper progression. See how our previous patient, James Smith, developed Achilles tendinopathy and recovered with a personalised treatment plan tailored by our team.
How can physio help Achilles Tendinopathy?
Physiotherapy helps reduce pain, improve tendon health, and guide you back to running safely and gradually.
1. Thorough Assessment
We begin by identifying:
- The stage of your tendinopathy (early or chronic)
- Contributing training habits or footwear issues
- Calf strength and flexibility imbalances
- Biomechanics that may increase tendon stress
2. Load Management
Reducing activity completely is rarely the answer. We help you adjust your running volume, intensity, and surfaces to support tendon recovery without complete rest.
3. Targeted Strengthening
Tendons respond well to load. We prescribe calf-loading exercises like isometric holds, slow eccentric contractions, and controlled heel raises based on your stage of recovery.
4. Manual Therapy and Mobility
We may use soft tissue release and ankle mobility work to reduce strain on the tendon and restore normal motion.
5. Return-to-Run Plan
Your physio will build a phased return-to-run schedule that progresses based on:
- Pain levels
- Strength benchmarks
- Recovery response to load
- Training goals
Book online in just 60 seconds and take the first step toward long-term recovery.
Recovery timeline for Achilles Tendinopathy
How quickly you recover depends on the severity of the condition and when you start treatment.
|
Condition Stage |
Expected Recovery Time |
|
Early/Reactive Stage |
4 to 6 weeks |
|
Chronic/Long-Term Stage |
8 to 12 weeks or more |
Recovery is not just about symptom relief. The goal is to improve tendon capacity so you can return to running and reduce the risk of recurrence.
When can you start running again?
You’ll return to running when you can:
- Walk pain-free
- Perform single-leg calf raises with control
- Load the tendon without a flare-up
- Run short intervals without sharp pain during or after
We may start with a walk-run progression and gradually increase time and pace, depending on how the tendon responds and the severity of the injury.
Our goal is to help you run stronger and with more confidence than before. Book online with our experienced physios in Perth today. Same and next-day appointments available. No referral needed.
FAQs about Achilles Tendinopathy
Can I keep running with Achilles pain?
Yes, in many cases. If your pain improves during activity and remains mild, you may continue modified running under the guidance of a physiotherapist.
Is stretching helpful for Achilles tendinopathy?
Stretching can help with stiffness, especially in the calves, but loading and strengthening the tendons is more effective for recovery.
What is the difference between tendinitis and tendinopathy?
Tendinitis refers to inflammation. Tendinopathy is a broader term that includes degeneration. Treatment for tendinopathy focuses on load, not just rest or anti-inflammatories.
Do I need an ultrasound or MRI?
Not always. Achilles tendinopathy is usually diagnosed through physical assessment. Imaging may be used for chronic cases or if a tear is suspected.
Can orthotics or heel lifts help?
They can provide short-term relief by reducing tendon strain. Your physio can assess your gait and let you know if they are appropriate.
What happens if I ignore Achilles tendinopathy?
The condition may become chronic and take longer to heal. In rare cases, the tendon may weaken enough to increase the risk of rupture.
