The Achilles tendon is one of the most important—and most vulnerable—tendons in the body. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a seasoned runner, or just trying to stay active, protecting your Achilles is key to staying on your feet. At Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists, we treat a wide range of patients dealing with Achilles tendon injuries caused by everything from everyday habits to intense physical activity.
So what’s behind all this strain on your Achilles? Let’s take a closer look at what causes these injuries—and what you can do to keep them from happening in the first place.
Your Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays a critical role in walking, running, jumping, and climbing stairs. Unfortunately, it’s also prone to overuse and injury, especially in athletes and active individuals.
Achilles tendon pain can be frustrating and limiting. Left untreated, it may progress into Achilles tendonitis or even a rupture. Understanding what causes this kind of injury is the first step toward prevention and recovery.
Running on hard surfaces, sprinting up hills, or suddenly increasing workout intensity can overload the Achilles tendon. Without enough rest or recovery time, micro-tears form and inflammation builds. According to the Mayo Clinic, Achilles tendinitis often results from repetitive stress on the tendon, particularly in runners or individuals who suddenly increase activity levels.
Prevention tip: Gradually increase your training intensity. Be sure to incorporate rest days into your weekly routine to allow your tendon time to recover.
Limited flexibility in the calf muscles puts excess strain on the Achilles tendon, making it more likely to stretch or tear during physical activity.
Prevention tip: Add regular calf and Achilles stretches to your routine—especially before and after workouts.
Shoes that lack heel support or cushioning can shift strain to your Achilles. High heels, when worn frequently, can also shorten the tendon over time and lead to long-term problems.
Prevention tip: Opt for shoes with solid heel support and proper cushioning to reduce strain on your Achilles. If you’re active, be sure to replace your athletic shoes regularly. For more helpful advice on picking the right footwear, check out this Footwear Guide from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Achilles tendon injuries can also occur from abrupt force, such as slipping, tripping, or landing awkwardly during sports. These injuries can be more serious and may require immediate medical attention.
Issues like flat feet or overpronation can increase the load on your Achilles tendon, especially during physical activity.
Prevention tip: Custom orthotics can provide the proper arch support and reduce stress on the tendon. We can help you find the right fit during an in-office evaluation.
Recognizing early symptoms can prevent a minor irritation from turning into a major issue:
When to see a specialist: If pain continues for more than a few days, or worsens with use, it’s time to consult a foot and ankle specialist.
Preventive care plays a big role in avoiding chronic tendon issues. Here are a few strategies that can help:
Achilles tendon injuries may be common, but with the right care, they don’t have to keep you sidelined. At Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists, we’re dedicated to helping you stay active and pain-free—whether you’re looking for relief or want to prevent future issues.
We offer:
Understanding the causes, catching symptoms early, and getting the right support can make all the difference. Don’t let Achilles pain hold you back—contact us today and take the first step toward lasting relief and better foot health.