Find help with Achilles tendinopathy

Struggling with pain at the back of your heel? Achilles tendinopathy can make even the simplest movements—like walking or standing on tiptoes—a real challenge. Imagine waking up and feeling a sharp twinge each time you take a step, like a tight cord pulling at the back of your leg. For many people, that’s a daily reality with Achilles tendinopathy. But it doesn’t have to hold you back—learning about the condition can help you manage it and get moving comfortably again.

What is Achilles Tendinopathy?

Achilles tendinopathy is a condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the band of tissue connecting your calf muscle to your heel bone. This tendon plays a big role in helping us walk, run, and jump. Achilles tendinopathy often shows up as a nagging pain or stiffness in the heel, and it’s usually triggered by overuse. Whether you’re a runner, dancer, or simply active on your feet, this condition can make it tough to keep up with your usual routine.

Different Types of Achilles Tendon Pain

Not all Achilles pain is the same. Achilles tendinopathy typically covers two main types: 

• Insertional Achilles tendinopathy, which affects the area where the tendon meets the heel bone;
• Mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy, which impacts the middle of the tendon.

The difference? Insertional pain tends to flare up right at the back of the heel, while mid-portion pain is felt a bit higher up, along the tendon itself. Knowing which type you have can help you find the right approach to easing the pain.

Causes of Achilles Tendinopathy

So, what causes Achilles tendinopathy? It often comes down to overuse, especially from high-impact activities like running or jumping. But you don’t have to be an athlete to experience it—sometimes even sudden increases in activity or wearing unsupportive shoes can lead to tendon strain. Other factors like age and foot structure can also play a role. Think of it like a rubber band that’s been stretched one too many times; the more stress placed on the tendon, the more likely it is to develop micro-tears that lead to pain.