How to Get Relief from Achilles Tendon Pain

If you're a mythology buff, you know that Achilles was one of his time's most indestructible warriors — save one spot: his ankle. Ironically, that's the name we gave to your body's thickest, strongest tendon. 

To add insult to injury, your Achilles tendon is also left almost entirely to its own devices, and injuring it has sidelined many great athletes. 

Dr. Maurice Aiken and our expert podiatric team at Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists in Dunedin, Florida, specialize in Achilles tendon treatment. We also want to equip you with ways to manage your pain and resolve your injury independently (if it's mild enough). 

Here's a closer look at what's going on behind the scenes and how you can take steps to get relief from your pain. 

Understanding your pain

Even a slight injury to your Achilles tendon can result in screaming pain anytime you try to jump, climb stairs, or take a step. But not Achilles tendon pain is created equally. 

You might experience pain at the hands of tendinitis, which results from inflammation. Tendinosis is a degenerative condition that stems from the gradual breakdown of tendon fibers. 

Then you have bursitis, when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac between your Achilles tendon and heel bone, becomes inflamed. 

Knowing what's specifically causing your pain is crucial to the diagnosis process. We employ advanced imaging technology and thoroughly review your symptoms to uncover the underlying cause of your pain. We use that information to help us make the best recommendations. 

Fortunately, as long as there's no tearing, you can manage Achilles tendon pain on your own, and in some cases, you can do enough to help it heal. 

The following are our favorite at-home methods for less Achilles tendon pain. 

Use the RICE method

Most soft-tissue injuries respond quickly and respond well to the RICE method. If you’ve never heard of it, RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Combined, these strategies promote inflammation reduction, healing, and, ultimately, less pain. 

Switch up your activities

Until your tendon heals, you’ll need to adjust your routine. For avid runners, that means taking a break from your usual route. High-impact athletes need to find lower-impact alternatives. 

The best swaps, such as swimming and riding a stationary bike, don't stress your feet. You can also focus on training your upper body while you’re healing. 

Find a new pair of shoes

Sometimes, Achilles tendon pain is brought on or exacerbated by not wearing the right shoes or because your shoes have worn out. This is especially true for long-distance runners, who wear their shoes thin faster than others. 

You can tell if your shoes are ready to be replaced by looking at the tread and heel height. If you're ready to replace your shoes, talk to us, and we'll ensure you get a pair supporting your entire foot and ankle. 

Invest in custom orthotics

Custom orthotics (not store-bought) are shoe inserts we tailor to support your photo and correct mechanical issues. They instantly redistribute the pressure and stress on your foot and significantly reduce strain on your tendon. 

Try physical therapy

Physical therapists can guide you through exercises that strengthen the muscles around your Achilles tendon, enhancing flexibility, promoting healing, and improving foot mechanics. 

When all else fails

If your best efforts aren’t enough to relieve your pain, we’re standing by with advanced treatments to finish the job. Erchonia® cold laser therapy is one such treatment that uses low-level laser light to reduce inflammation, promote healing, encourage cellular repair, and tamp down painful swelling. 

Ready to heal your heel? We’re ready to help. Call Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists or request an appointment online today.