Pain at the back of the ankle can be frustrating, particularly when it interferes with running, walking, sport or daily activities. Achilles tendinopathy is a common condition affecting the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often develops gradually and may affect people who are active, but it can also occur in individuals who have recently changed their activity levels.

At Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic, we help people across Canberra understand their Achilles tendon pain and develop a management plan based on their symptoms, goals and lifestyle. Understanding what may be contributing to your symptoms is an important first step towards improving movement and returning to activities you enjoy.

What is Achilles tendinopathy?

Achilles tendinopathy refers to pain and changes within the Achilles tendon, usually occurring where the tendon attaches to the heel bone or within the middle portion of the tendon.

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and plays an important role in activities that involve pushing off the ground, such as walking, running, jumping and climbing stairs.

Unlike some acute injuries, Achilles tendinopathy often develops over time due to changes in the amount of load placed on the tendon. This does not necessarily mean the tendon is permanently damaged; rather, it may be experiencing difficulty adapting to the demands being placed on it.

What are the common symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy?

Common symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy may include:

• Pain or tenderness at the back of the ankle or heel

• Morning stiffness around the Achilles tendon

• Discomfort when walking, running or exercising

• Increased pain after periods of increased activity

• Thickening or sensitivity around the tendon area

• Reduced confidence when performing certain movements

Symptoms can vary between individuals. Some people may notice pain only during higher-level activities, while others may experience discomfort during everyday movements.

What causes Achilles tendon pain?

Achilles tendinopathy is usually related to a mismatch between the load placed on the tendon and its ability to tolerate that load.

Common contributing factors may include:

• A sudden increase in running distance, speed or training intensity

• Returning to sport after a period of reduced activity

• Repetitive stress from activities involving jumping or running

• Changes in footwear or training surfaces

• Reduced calf strength or endurance

• Changes in movement patterns or training habits

It is important to remember that Achilles tendon pain is often influenced by multiple factors rather than one single cause.

Can physiotherapy help Achilles tendinopathy?

Physiotherapy for Achilles tendinopathy focuses on understanding your symptoms, identifying contributing factors and developing an appropriate rehabilitation plan.

At Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic in Canberra, an assessment may involve:

• Discussing your symptoms, activity levels and goals

• Assessing ankle and lower limb movement

• Looking at calf strength and function

• Reviewing training loads or activity changes

• Providing education about tendon health and recovery

Treatment approaches may include:

Progressive strengthening exercises

Exercise is commonly used as part of Achilles tendinopathy rehabilitation. A physiotherapist can guide you through appropriate strengthening exercises that are tailored to your current ability and gradually progressed over time.

Strengthening the calf muscles and improving the tendon’s ability to tolerate load may help support a return to activities such as running and sport.

Activity and load management

Completely stopping activity is not always necessary. A physiotherapist can help you understand how to modify activities, manage symptoms and gradually rebuild capacity.

This may involve adjusting:

• Training volume

• Exercise intensity

• Recovery periods

• Sport participation

Movement and technique advice

Your physiotherapist may assess how you move during activities and provide advice that may help reduce unnecessary stress on the tendon while improving confidence with movement.

How long does Achilles tendinopathy take to improve?

Recovery time for Achilles tendinopathy varies depending on factors such as symptom duration, activity demands, tendon capacity and consistency with rehabilitation.

Some people notice improvements relatively quickly, while others require a longer period of gradual progression. A physiotherapist can help set realistic expectations and guide you through the recovery process.

Frequently asked questions about Achilles tendinopathy

Should I stop running if I have Achilles tendon pain?

Not necessarily. Many people can continue some level of running with appropriate modifications. A physiotherapist can help determine what level of activity is suitable based on your symptoms and goals.

Is Achilles tendinopathy the same as an Achilles tendon tear?

No. Achilles tendinopathy is different from an acute Achilles tendon rupture. Tendinopathy usually develops gradually, whereas a rupture is typically a sudden injury requiring urgent medical assessment.

When should I see a physiotherapist for Achilles tendon pain?

Consider seeing a physiotherapist if your Achilles pain is affecting your walking, exercise, sport or daily activities, or if symptoms are not improving with self-management.

Early assessment can help you better understand your condition and provide guidance on appropriate next steps.

Achilles Tendinopathy Physiotherapy in Canberra

Achilles tendon pain can affect people of all activity levels, from recreational walkers and runners to competitive athletes. Getting the right advice can help you better understand your symptoms and make informed decisions about managing your recovery.

If you are experiencing Achilles tendinopathy symptoms in Canberra, the team at Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic can assess your condition and provide personalised physiotherapy support.

Contact Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic today to book an appointment and take the next step towards managing your Achilles tendon pain.

Book online HERE!