Achilles Tendonitis

What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is an injury of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that joins the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to the heel bone. It is caused by overuse, or by using the tendon too hard without enough rest.

Many people notice pain and stiffness at the back of the heel that is worse first thing in the morning, easing once they begin to move, only to return after activity. If left untreated, Achilles tendon pain can become chronic and increase the risk of an Achilles tendon rupture.

Common Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis

Symptoms may include:

• Pain at the back of the heel or lower calf
• Stiffness in the tendon, particularly first thing in the morning
• Pain that warms up during activity but returns afterwards
• Tenderness when pressing or squeezing the tendon
• Swelling or thickening along the tendon
• Reduced strength when pushing off during walking, running, or jumping

Sudden, extreme pain in the tendon resulting in an inability to put weight on the foot can indicate a rupture, which requires immediate medical attention. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek professional medical advice.

What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?

Overuse and repetitive movements can place excessive strain on the Achilles tendon, limiting range of movement and causing painful inflammation.

Several factors can increase the risk:

Sudden Increases in Activity Particularly for people who start running farther, faster, or longer without building up over time.

Flat Feet or High Arches A flat arch in the foot or a high arch can increase strain on the Achilles tendon.

Unsupportive or Worn Out Footwear Worn out running shoes or footwear that does not suit your foot type may increase tendon loading and contribute to symptoms.

Tight or Weak Calf Muscles Regular use of high-heeled shoes may shorten the calf muscles over time, increasing strain on the Achilles tendon when wearing flat shoes. Tight or weak calf muscles also raise the risk of Achilles pain.

Running Style and Training Load Frequent uphill running or treadmill running on an incline increases the demand placed on the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.

How Orthotics May Help Achilles Tendonitis

Orthotics, particularly those with heel and arch support are a well recognised part of conservative management for Achilles tendonitis.

Benefits may include:

Reduced Tendon Strain Heel lifts can decrease the amount of strain on the tendon and are particularly helpful for insertional Achilles tendonitis, as they can move the heel away from the back of the shoe where rubbing occurs.

Immediate Pain Relief During Walking Research has found that heel lifts significantly improved pain immediately during walking in people with insertional Achilles tendonitis.

Improved Foot Biomechanics Foot orthotics work by correcting biomechanical malalignment and reducing tendon load — serving to reduce hindfoot valgus and align the heel in a more neutral position, which relieves shear stress over the Achilles tendon, particularly in people with flat feet or overpronation.

Shock Absorption Orthotics with cushioning help reduce the shock of heel impact and relieve Achilles tendon pain, while heel cups or cushions raise the heel slightly, shortening the tendon and taking pressure off it during movement.

While orthotics are not a cure for Achilles tendonitis, they can form an important part of a broader management plan alongside physical therapy, activity modification, and appropriate footwear.

Who May Benefit From Orthotics?

Orthotics may be suitable for people who:

• Experience pain or stiffness at the back of the heel
• Have flat feet or high arches
• Are returning to running or sport after a period of rest
• Spend long hours on their feet at work
• Have recently increased their training load
• Need additional heel support inside their everyday or athletic footwear

SOLE5 Orthotics for Achilles Tendonitis

SOLE5 orthotics are designed to provide structured support for the heel and arch while fitting comfortably inside a wide range of footwear.

Key features include:

• Heel cushioning to absorb impact and reduce tendon strain
• Supportive arch design to correct overpronation
• Heel stabilisation for improved foot alignment
• Shock absorption for walking, running, and standing
• Lightweight construction suitable for daily wear

Whether you're managing an early flare up or working through a longer recovery, supportive orthotics may help reduce the load on your Achilles tendon and keep you moving more comfortably.

References

1. Mayo Clinic – Achilles Tendinitis Overview
2. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – Achilles Tendinitis
3. NHS – Achilles Tendinitis
4. Cleveland Clinic – Achilles Tendinitis