Achilles Tendinitis Physiotherapy
Assessment and rehabilitation for Achilles tendon pain affecting walking, running, and sport activity.
Achilles tendinitis or tendinopathy often develops with load changes. Physiotherapy focuses on reducing tendon irritability and building progressive strength capacity.
Medically reviewed by Lead Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Reviewed: 11 March 2026 - Next review due: 11 March 2027
Common Symptoms
Pain or stiffness in the Achilles tendon
Morning stiffness around the heel and calf
Pain during running, jumping, or stairs
Tendon tenderness after increased training load
Seek Prompt Medical Advice If You Have
Sudden pop or snap with immediate weakness
Inability to push off or tiptoe
Major swelling after acute injury
Severe calf pain or concerning swelling symptoms
If you are unsure, call NHS 111 or seek urgent medical care.
Assessment
Load history and symptom behaviour review
Calf strength and tendon capacity testing
Ankle and lower-limb movement assessment
Structured rehabilitation planning with milestones
Treatment
Progressive tendon-loading exercise programme
Calf strength and control rehabilitation
Running and sport load-management advice
Return-to-impact progression based on response
Self-Management
Avoid rapid spikes in running or plyometric load
Perform tendon exercises at prescribed frequency
Use pain-guided progression principles
Monitor next-day stiffness to guide load decisions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Achilles tendinitis the same as rupture?+
No. Tendinitis/tendinopathy is overload-related tendon pain, while rupture is a tear requiring urgent assessment.
Can I keep training while recovering?+
Often yes, with structured load modification and progressive tendon rehabilitation.
How do I know if loading is too much?+
We use pain and next-day stiffness response to guide progression and avoid flare-ups.
Related Pages
Continue with related condition guidance or return to the treatments directory.