Achilles tendinitis
Achilles Tendinitis Support in Waterford
Pain at the Back of the Heel or Ankle? Step Right Can Help
Achilles tendinitis is a common cause of pain at the back of the heel or lower calf. It often develops gradually and can become worse with walking, running, standing for long periods, or wearing unsupportive footwear.
At Step Right Waterford, we help people reduce Achilles pain by assessing foot function and gait, improving support, and reducing strain through the lower limb.
👉 Book an appointment today at Step Right Waterford and let’s get you moving comfortably again.
What is Achilles Tendinitis?
The Achilles tendon is the thick tendon at the back of your ankle that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It plays a major role in walking, running, climbing stairs, and pushing off the ground.
Achilles tendinitis happens when the tendon becomes irritated or overloaded, often from repeated strain over time.
Common Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis
You may notice:
- Pain or stiffness at the back of the heel
- Tightness in the lower calf or ankle
- Soreness after walking or exercise
- Pain when climbing stairs
- Discomfort that improves slightly as you warm up, then returns later
- Tenderness when pressing the tendon
If the pain is persistent or worsening, it’s best to get it checked early.
What Causes Achilles Tendinitis?
Achilles pain is usually caused by overload rather than one single event.
Common causes include:
- Sudden increase in walking, running, or training
- Tight calves or limited ankle flexibility
- Poor footwear support or worn-out shoes
- Standing long hours on hard floors
- Flat feet / overpronation (foot rolling inward)
- High arches (reduced shock absorption)
- Gait issues affecting how force travels up the leg
Support and movement patterns matter a lot with Achilles problems.
Achilles Tendinitis vs Achilles Rupture
Most people with Achilles pain do not have a rupture.
Achilles tendinitis usually builds gradually.
A rupture is a sudden injury and is typically associated with a sharp “snap” feeling and difficulty walking.
If you ever experience sudden severe pain or feel like you can’t push off the foot properly, seek urgent medical attention.
How Step Right Waterford Helps Achilles Tendinitis
Foot & Gait Assessment (Find the Cause)
At Step Right Waterford, we assess how your feet move and load during walking. This helps us identify what may be contributing to Achilles strain, including:
- Foot posture and arch support needs
- Pressure points and loading patterns
- Footwear stability and cushioning
- Gait patterns that overload the tendon
Support Options to Reduce Achilles Strain
Depending on your needs, we may recommend:
- Supportive footwear advice
- Improved cushioning and stability
- Arch support recommendations
- Custom orthotics where appropriate
The aim is to reduce repeated strain and help the tendon settle over time.
When Should You Get Achilles Pain Checked?
Book an appointment if:
- Pain is lasting more than 1–2 weeks
- Walking or standing is uncomfortable
- Pain is affecting work or exercise
- You keep getting flare-ups
- Your shoes feel unsupportive or worn out
Early support usually leads to better outcomes.
Achilles Tendinitis Support in Waterford
Step Right Waterford helps people improve comfort by addressing the feet, gait, and support factors that often contribute to Achilles pain.
👉 Book an appointment today and let’s get you back moving comfortably again.
FAQ: Achilles Tendinitis
Can footwear cause Achilles pain?
Yes. Poor support or worn cushioning can increase strain through the lower leg and Achilles tendon.
Can flat feet cause Achilles tendinitis?
They can contribute. Flat feet can increase inward rolling and change loading through the ankle and tendon.
Do orthotics help Achilles tendinitis?
In some cases, yes — especially when the issue is linked to foot posture and gait. We’ll advise honestly based on your assessment.
