Achilles Tendon Pain

Achilles tendon pain commonly presents as discomfort at the back of the heel and is associated with the Achilles tendon, a thick and resilient structure that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. The tendon runs from the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to its attachment at the heel, allowing controlled movement and efficient force transmission through the foot and ankle during walking, running, and other activities. As several conditions can cause pain in this area, accurately identifying the underlying diagnosis is essential before treatment begins.

The most frequent cause of posterior heel pain is overload and degenerative change within the Achilles tendon. This may be classified as mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy or insertional Achilles tendinopathy, depending on the area of tendon involvement.

Although Achilles tendon injuries are common, effective, evidence-based treatment options are available. At Essex Podiatry Clinics, these include advanced therapies such as Shockwave Therapy. Our ultrasound clinic uses diagnostic ultrasound to assess tendon structure in detail, allowing clinicians to identify degenerative changes, soft tissue injury, partial tears, complete ruptures, or associated bursal involvement. This ensures an accurate diagnosis and a targeted, individualised treatment plan.