Achilles Tendinitis: A Common Cause of Heel Pain & How to Treat It

By Dr. Neda Arjomandi, Board-Certified Podiatrist in Laguna Hills, Orange County

If you’ve been feeling a sharp or aching pain in the back of your ankle—especially after walking, running, or playing sports—you might be suffering from Achilles tendinitis. It’s one of the most frequent causes of heel pain, and while it can be disruptive, it’s very treatable when caught early.

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendon disorders and helping you get back on your feet—pain free.

🦶 What Is Achilles Tendinitis?

The Achilles tendon is a strong, fibrous cord that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It helps you walk, run, jump, and stand on your toes. Over time or with excessive strain, the tendon can become irritated and inflamed, leading to Achilles tendinitis.

This condition can affect anyone, but it’s particularly common among:

• Runners and athletes
• Middle-aged adults who engage in weekend sports
• Individuals with flat feet or high arches
• People who suddenly increase their exercise intensity or duration

There are two types of Achilles tendinitis:

1. Non-insertional Achilles tendinitis – Occurs in the middle portion of the tendon and is more common in younger, active individuals.
2. Insertional Achilles tendinitis – Involves the lower portion of the tendon near the heel and may occur alongside bone spurs.

⚠️ What Causes Achilles Tendinitis?

Common causes include:

• Overuse from repetitive stress or sudden increase in activity
• Poorly fitting or unsupportive shoes
• Tight calf muscles or limited ankle mobility
• Flat feet or excessive pronation
• Running on hard or uneven surfaces
• Aging and natural wear-and-tear

Ignoring these triggers can lead to chronic inflammation, microtears, and—if untreated—a partial or complete rupture of the tendon.

🔍 Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis

Pay close attention to signs like:

• Dull or sharp pain above your heel or lower calf
• Morning stiffness that improves with activity
• Swelling or thickening of the tendon
• Tenderness when touching the back of the ankle
• Pain that worsens during or after physical activity
• Difficulty rising on your toes

If your pain is sudden and severe, especially with a popping sound, it could indicate a tendon rupture, which requires urgent medical attention.

🧪 How We Diagnose Achilles Tendinitis

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, we perform a detailed physical exam, test your range of motion, and may use diagnostic ultrasound or X-rays to evaluate tendon damage and rule out bone spurs or tears.

We also analyze your foot biomechanics to see if issues like overpronation or flat feet are contributing factors.

🛠️ Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

⭐ First-Line Treatments (Non-Surgical)

Most patients improve significantly with conservative care, including:

• Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your pain.
• Ice therapy: Reduces inflammation and swelling.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: To manage pain and reduce swelling.
• Heel lifts or orthotic inserts: Offload pressure from the tendon.
• Custom orthotics: Address flat feet or abnormal gait patterns.
• Physical therapy: Strengthening, stretching, and eccentric loading exercises.
• Night splints: Promote proper tendon alignment during sleep.
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT): Promotes tendon healing.

💉 Advanced Interventions

For more persistent or severe cases:

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injections: Stimulate natural healing using your body’s own growth factors.
• Immobilization: A walking boot or cast may be used to rest the tendon.
• Surgery (rare): Required for tendon tears, chronic degeneration, or failed conservative treatment.

🏃‍♀️ How to Prevent Achilles Tendinitis

• Warm up before any physical activity
• Gradually increase workout intensity
• Stretch calves and Achilles tendon regularly
• Wear supportive footwear for your activity and foot type
• Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
• Replace old or worn-out shoes promptly
• Cross-train to avoid repetitive stress from one sport

🦶 We Treat More Than Just Achilles Tendinitis

At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, we also specialize in:

• Heel pain & plantar fasciitis
• Custom orthotics
• Diabetic foot care
• Ingrown toenails & bunions
• Foot and ankle injuries
• Nail fungus & skin conditions

Whether you're a runner, a working professional, or a senior with mobility issues, we offer personalized, compassionate care tailored to your foot health goals.

👩‍⚕️ About Dr. Neda Arjomandi

I’m Dr. Neda Arjomandi, a board-certified podiatrist serving the Orange County community with pride and dedication. At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, we take a whole-patient approach to foot and ankle care—blending the latest medical technology with personalized treatment plans.

We welcome patients from Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Irvine, and neighboring cities.

📅 Schedule an Appointment Today

Don't let heel pain slow you down. If you're experiencing any symptoms of Achilles tendinitis, early diagnosis and treatment can help you avoid long-term damage.

📍 Visit us at:
 Laguna Woods Podiatry Group
 24953 Paseo de Valencia, Suite 17B
 Laguna Hills, CA 92653

📞 Call: (949) 581-2520
 🌐 www.lagunawoodspodiatry.com