Achilles Tendonitis
Overview
Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon connecting the calf muscle to the heel bone. It is a common overuse injury among runners, sports players, and people who suddenly increase their activity level. At DR+, our GPs with specialised training in pain management provide a comprehensive Achilles tendon assessment to identify the root cause of your pain. We then develop a personalised, non-surgical treatment plan tailored to your needs, helping to reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and support a safe return to activity.
What is Achilles Tendonitis？
Achilles tendonitis is a condition characterised by inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon located at the back of the ankle. This tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and plays a role in activities like walking, running, and jumping. Achilles tendonitis ranges from a mild ache in the ankle to severe pain that can restrict movement.
What Are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis presents with several symptoms, which worsen with continued physical activity. This includes:
- Pain Along the Tendon: This may initially be a mild ache above the heel after running or sports. Over time, it can escalate to persistent pain, especially after prolonged or intense activity.
- Morning Stiffness and Tenderness: The area around the Achilles tendon may feel stiff, especially in the morning or after periods of rest. There may be tenderness to the touch, which decreases with mild activity.
- Swelling and Warmth: Noticeable swelling along the tendon is common, and the area may feel warm due to inflammation.
- Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty or discomfort while flexing the foot or standing on tiptoe, often accompanied by a feeling of tightness in the calf muscles
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention？
Seek urgent assessment if you experience a sudden sharp pain or a ‘pop’ in the back of the ankle during activity: this may indicate an Achilles tendon rupture, which requires immediate evaluation. Other red flags include inability to bear weight on the affected foot, significant bruising or swelling in the heel and ankle region, or a palpable gap in the tendon.
Struggling With Persistent Pain?
Consult one of our DR+ today for a detailed consultation & personalised treatment plan.
What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis results from repetitive stress to the tendon, caused by mechanical and non-mechanical factors. Understanding the underlying reason is the first step toward effective, targeted treatment.
Mechanical Factors
- Overuse and Strain: Frequent physical activities that place stress on the tendon, like running or jumping sports, can lead to overuse injuries.
- Sudden Increase in Physical Activity: A rapid increase in the intensity or duration of exercise can strain the Achilles tendon.
- Inadequate Footwear: Shoes that do not provide proper support or are worn out can increase the risk.
- Tight Calf Muscles: Limited flexibility in the calf muscles can put extra stress on the Achilles tendon.
- Previous Injuries: A history of tendonitis or tendon injuries can predispose an individual to further issues.
- Obesity: Individuals who are obese often experience an increased strain on the tendon.
Non-Mechanical Factors
- Biological Factors: Some biological predispositions could result in uneven distribution of weight on the feet and the heel.
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as diabetes, can make tendon fibres stiff and weak.
- Age: The tendon weakens with age, making older individuals more susceptible.
- Gender: Achilles tendonitis is generally more prevalent in men than women.
What Are the Treatment Options for Achilles Tendonitis?
Pain Medication
This involves the use of medications such as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and other specialised medications designed for pain management. The type and dosage are tailored to the individual’s condition and medical history.
Myospan
Minimally invasive treatments aim to effectively relieve common pain conditions by targeting pain sources.
- Coreflex Injections: Typically contain a corticosteroid and are used for inflamed joints or tissues.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections: Utilise own platelets to promote healing in damaged tissues.
- Intra-Articular Injections: Most commonly used to treat osteoarthritis in the hip or knee, but they can also be given in other joints, including shoulders, wrists, ankles, hands, and fingers.
For chronic pain conditions originating from spinal issues, Neurospan can be performed by our team of pain specialists from Singapore Paincare Center.
When Should You See a Doctor for Achilles Tendonitis?
Not all cases need immediate medical attention, but some situations do. See a DR+ doctor if your condition:
- Heel or tendon pain persisting for more than 4-6 weeks despite rest and conservative care
- Pain waking you from sleep or present at rest
- Sudden onset of severe pain or a ‘pop’ sensation during physical activity
- Visible thickening or a palpable lump along the tendon
- Pain preventing you from walking normally
- No improvement after modifying your training load and footwear
Our Doctors
Our doctors are experienced in assessing conditions such as Achilles tendonitis and other musculoskeletal causes of heel and calf pain. Through a comprehensive clinical assessment, they help identify the underlying cause of pain, swelling, and limited movement, and guide appropriate treatment or referral when necessary.
All DR+ doctors undergo additional training through the Singapore Paincare Academy, where they develop skills in performing specialised injections that may be used in selected cases of Achilles tendonitis. These procedures aim to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and support improved tendon function and mobility.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing Achilles tendonitis involves strategies to reduce stress on the tendon.
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden spikes in the intensity or duration of exercise. Gradually build up the activity level, especially when starting new or more strenuous exercises.
- Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning. Replace athletic shoes regularly.
- Stretching and Strengthening: Regular stretching of the calf muscles can improve flexibility. Strengthening exercises for the calf and ankle can also reduce the strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Cross-Training: Engage in a variety of exercises to evenly distribute physical stress and reduce the focus on activities that heavily involve the Achilles tendon.
- Adequate Rest: Allow time for recovery between intense physical activities. Rest can help prevent overuse injuries.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the load on the Achilles tendon during activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a GP doctor treats Achilles Tendonitis?
Yes. A GP can assess and manage many cases of Achilles tendonitis, especially in the early stages. During the consultation, the doctor will evaluate symptoms such as heel or calf pain, swelling, and limited movement, and determine whether the condition is likely Achilles tendonitis or another tendon or musculoskeletal problem.
Treatment may include pain management medications, physiotherapy guidance, or targeted injection therapies where appropriate. If more complex treatment is required, the GP may also refer the patient to a sports medicine specialist or pain specialist.
What is the typical recovery time for Achilles tendonitis?
The recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to treatment. Mild cases may resolve in a few weeks, while more severe cases can take months.
Can Achilles tendonitis lead to more serious conditions?
If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can lead to tendon degeneration and increase the risk of tendon rupture, a severe condition requiring surgical intervention.
Is it safe to continue sports or exercise with Achilles tendonitis?
Reduce or modify activities that may exacerbate the symptoms. Low-impact exercises may be suitable in some cases.
Are there any home remedies for Achilles tendonitis?
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can be effective for managing mild symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help, but they should be used with caution.
When should I see a doctor?
Consult us if the pain persists despite home treatment, or if there is severe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking.
Can Achilles tendonitis recur?
Yes, especially if the underlying causes, such as overuse or inadequate footwear, are not addressed. Recurrence can be minimised with appropriate preventive measures.
Can Achilles tendon pain fully heal?
Yes, most people can recover fully from Achilles tendon pain with early and proper treatment. Combined with rest, stretching, and physiotherapy, this approach restores strength and prevents recurring injury.
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(Kindly note that clinic’s last registration is 15 minutes before closing time.)
Singapore 730018
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Kindly note that clinic’s last registration is 15 minutes before closing time.
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Sun: Closed - PH: Closed
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(Kindly note that clinic’s last registration is 15 minutes before closing time but may close earlier if the queue is unusually long.)
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(Kindly note that clinic’s last registration is 15 minutes before closing time.)
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