Achilles tendinopathy used to be known as Achilles Tendonitis. In general ‘itis’ usually refers to inflammation, so tendonitis would mean inflammation of a tendon. However, Achilles tendinopathy is now thought to be a better term to use because it is thought there is little or no inflammation that causes the problem.

Tendon’itis’ refers to inflammation, which would mean inflammation of a tendon. However, Achilles tendinopathy is now thought to be a better term because it is thought there is little or no inflammation present, which is why drugs like ibuprofen and cold packs only bring short term relief or do nothing at all. Achilles tendinopathy is a condition that causes pain, swelling, stiffness and weakness of the Achilles tendon.  It is thought to be caused by repeated tiny injuries (known as micro trauma) to the Achilles tendon.  After each injury, the tendon does not heal completely, as should normally happen.  Pain increases and function reduces.

There are a number of things that may lead to these repeated tiny injuries to the Achilles tendon.  For example:

  • Overuse of the Achilles tendon.  This can be a problem for people who run regularly.  (Achilles tendinopathy can also be a problem for dancers and for people who play a lot of tennis or other sports that involve jumping).
  • Training with inappropriate (not supportive enough) footwear. Having poor training or exercising techniques – for example, a poor running technique.
  • Making a change to your training programme – for example, increasing the intensity of your training and how often you train.
  • Training or exercising on hard or sloped surfaces.
  • Having a high-arched foot.
  • Having poor flexibility – for example, having tight or underdeveloped thigh/calf muscles.

For persistent Achilles problems we always use Diagnostic Ultrasound Scanning to accurately assess the nature of the problem. Only then can we design a bespoke rehabilitation/ progressive strengthening routine, advise on footwear changes, orthotic prescription (if needed) and Shockwave Therapy.

“I suffered from heel pain and Achilles tendonitis for about 8 months. I consulted various health professionals who gave me exercises and orthotics, all to no avail. On recommendation I visited James for Shockwave treatment. Finally a health professional who know what they were talking about!

After 3 sessions of Shockwave treatment I am back to playing badminton and walking several miles. I thoroughly recommend James.”

Pat Lawrence

“I’ve suffered with Plantar fasciitis & Achilles Tendonitis for the past two years. If you have it, you will know it’s a crippling foot condition. If like me you think you have tried & exhausted everything and lost hope, think again. I have recently had 4 sessions of Shockwave Therapy , I am well on the way to beating this and if I continue to follow James’s aftercare advice, I will get there.

Just don’t suffer as long as I did, help is out there you just have to know where to look.”

Mrs L Bishop

“I recently saw James Woledge having suffered with Achilles tendonitis for over one year. I had previously tried various other treatments which hadn’t helped. I had three sessions of Shockwave treatment and within a short period of time I was back to normal. I would highly recommend this treatment but I would say sooner rather than later – don’t leave it as long as I did!

Sarah C RGN

Published Evidence

Helping clients from Thanet and East Kent

The Bay Clinic is based in Broadstairs but easy to reach from Towns and Cities such as Canterbury, Dover, Margate, Ashford, Folkestone and Maidstone.

The Bay Clinic, 44 York Street, Broadstairs, Kent, CT10 1PB

Find out more how we can help heal your achilles tendonitis

Find out more about how we can help your achilles tendonitis or for more information about Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy.

Get in touch with The Bay Clinic to book an appointment on info@bayclinicbroadstairs.co.uk or via our contact form.