Have you ever experienced pain in the back of your leg, running from your heel up to your calf? This discomfort could have appeared suddenly during activities like sports or even walking up stairs, or it could have developed gradually over time. This area involves the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to the back of your heel bone. Injuries, overuse, poor footwear, or misalignment can lead to inflammation in this tendon, known as Achilles tendonitis. This condition can make walking, especially in certain footwear or barefoot, quite painful.
But don’t worry—there are solutions, and one of the best ways to relieve Achilles tendon pain is by visiting a foot specialist known as a pedorthist.
What Is a Pedorthist?
A pedorthist is a specialist trained specifically in foot mechanics and footwear. At our clinic, our pedorthist can help identify the root cause of your Achilles pain and provide personalized recommendations to help you feel better and get moving again. Why is it important to consult a pedorthist for Achilles tendonitis? They are the only healthcare professionals trained in both feet and footwear. They have an in-depth understanding of how your feet work, inside and out. During your visit, they will assess your footwear for wear patterns, which can give clues about the cause of your pain. They’ll also observe how you walk, helping identify any alignment issues contributing to your Achilles pain. Sometimes, something as simple as your gait or footwear choice can be the culprit. Orthotics may be part of the solution.
Simple Steps to Relieve Achilles Tendon Pain
It’s important to be seen by a pedorthist prior to treating your Achilles tendon pain. This is because the pain you are experiencing may have another cause, and treatments mentioned here may not be appropriate for your particular case. Be sure to book an appointment prior to trying any of these at home.
1. Rest
When your Achilles tendon is hurting, it’s crucial to give it time to heal. Since we use our feet constantly, they rarely get a full rest. Try to avoid activities that aggravate the pain, such as running or jumping.
2. Ice
Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Use a cold pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel, and place it on the sore spot for about 15-20 minutes at a time.
3. Stretching
Gentle stretching can help loosen your Achilles tendon and reduce pain. However, be careful not to overdo it—if the stretch causes pain, stop immediately. Try calf stretches by leaning against a wall, extending one leg behind you, and keeping your foot straight (not angled outward). Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then switch legs.
4. Supportive Footwear
Wearing shoes with proper support is key to relieving pressure on your Achilles tendon. If you’ve noticed damage to the back of your shoes, it may be contributing to your pain—especially if you have wide feet and wear shoes that are too long for width. This can cause heel slippage, leading to friction that exacerbates Achilles tendonitis.
To prevent further pain, avoid going barefoot or wearing unsupportive shoes. Opt for footwear with a slight heel lift, such as runners with a thicker heel, and wear slippers or sandals right after getting out of bed. Our foot specialist recommends Bauerfeind Achilles Splints for around-the-house support.
5. Pain Relief Cream
If your Achilles tendon is particularly sore, you might reach for over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but we prefer anti-inflammatory creams. They act faster and don’t need to pass through the stomach, making them gentler on your system. For short-term relief, we recommend Voltaren, and for long-term use, Deep Blue, a natural cream that can be applied anywhere on the body to alleviate pain.
When to See a Pedorthist
It is important to be properly diagnosed by an expert prior to using these treatments. Our foot specialists are here to help you get back on your feet pain-free.
Take the First Step Towards Pain-Free Feet
If you are experiencing symptoms of a achilles tendonitis, don’t wait to seek treatment. It could lead to worse pain and outcomes.
Don't let foot pain or discomfort hold you back. We now offer online appointments! Book with HealthWalks today and start your journey to healthier, happier feet.
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