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ACHILLES PAIN
Achilles Tendonitis Physiotherapy in Richmond
See below how Richmond Physiotherapist can help you
Achilles Tendonitis (Achilles Tendinopathy): Causes, Symptoms, and Rehabilitation
Achilles tendonitis, also known as Achilles tendinopathy, is a condition that affects the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel.
It commonly develops due to repetitive stress from activities such as running, jumping, or walking, especially when there is a sudden increase in activity.
This condition can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced performance, particularly during movement, and is often associated with calf strains and ankle sprains.
At Richmond Physiotherapist, we provide physiotherapy treatment for Achilles tendonitis in Richmond focused on reducing pain, improving tendon strength, and restoring function.
What Causes
Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is typically caused by repeated loading of the tendon without adequate recovery.
Common causes include:
- sudden increase in activity or training load
- repetitive running or jumping
- tight calf muscles
- poor footwear or support
- weak lower leg muscles
- poor movement mechanics
These factors increase stress on the Achilles tendon and lead to irritation
Symptoms of
Achilles Tendonitis
Symptoms are usually felt along the back of the ankle or heel.
Common symptoms include:
- pain along the Achilles tendon
- stiffness, especially in the morning
- pain during or after activity
- tenderness when touching the tendon
- swelling or thickening of the tendon
- reduced performance during activity
Pain may improve with movement but worsen after activity.
How Physiotherapy Helps
Achilles Tendonitis
Physiotherapy focuses on progressive loading and strengthening of the tendon.
During your physiotherapy assessment at Richmond Physiotherapist, we evaluate:
- tendon irritation and pain levels
- calf muscle strength
- ankle mobility
- walking and running mechanics
- activity levels and load
This helps guide a structured and progressive rehabilitation plan.
Recovery is typically structured in phases:
Pain Management Phase
- reduce tendon irritation
- modify activity
- introduce isometric exercises
Strength Phase
- progressive tendon loading
- improve calf strength
Energy Storage Phase
- introduce dynamic movements
- improve tendon capacity
Return to Activity
- gradual return to running or sport
- ensure tendon tolerates load
Physiotherapy Treatments for
Achilles Tendonitis
Treatment may include:
Exercise Rehabilitation
Progressive loading exercises for the Achilles tendon.
Isometric Exercises
To reduce pain early in rehab.
Manual Therapy
Improving calf muscle flexibility and mobility.
Shockwave Therapy
For chronic tendon pain.
Load Management
Adjusting activity levels and training volume.
When to See a Physiotherapist
You should consider physiotherapy if:
- pain persists in the Achilles tendon
- stiffness is present in the morning
- activity causes pain or worsening symptoms
- performance is affected
- symptoms are not improving
Early treatment helps prevent chronic tendon problems.
Book Achilles Tendonitis Physiotherapy in Richmond
If you are dealing with Achilles tendon pain, physiotherapy can help guide your recovery.
Richmond Physiotherapist provides structured rehabilitation to help you reduce pain, improve strength, and return to activity safely.
You can also learn more about sports injury physiotherapy in Richmond and how rehab supports recovery and long-term tendon health.
Book your physiotherapy appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stretch my Achilles if it hurts?
Aggressive stretching of an irritated Achilles usually makes it worse. The tendon doesn’t like being yanked when it’s angry. We use progressive loading instead, starting with isometrics to calm pain, then building to eccentric and heavy slow resistance work.
Can I keep running with Achilles tendonitis?
It depends on your pain level. If pain stays below 3 out of 10 during the run and isn’t worse the next morning, you can usually keep some running going. If it’s getting worse run to run, we need to back off. The 24-hour response is the real test.
Do heel lifts or orthotics help?
A small heel lift can take pressure off the Achilles short term and make walking more comfortable. But it’s a temporary tool, not a fix. The tendon needs loading to remodel, and we can’t outsource that to a lift forever.
How long does Achilles tendonitis take to resolve?
Longer than you want to hear. Three to six months is typical for a proper recovery. Tendons remodel slowly. The people who get better fastest are the ones who commit to the loading program instead of chasing quick fixes.
Book an appointment
Your recovery starts with one visit.
Every session is 1-on-1, built around your body and your goals. We bill your insurance directly, so you can focus on getting better.