Does physiotherapy treat Achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is irritation or degeneration of the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel. A physiotherapist assesses walking, ankle movement, calf strength and the activities that load the tendon. Treatment may include education about activity changes, gentle mobility work, calf strengthening and a staged return to walking, running or sport. Exercises are usually progressed according to symptoms and function; pushing through sharp or worsening pain can delay recovery.

Reduce high-impact activity for now, while keeping comfortable movement if it does not increase symptoms later that day or the next morning. Wear supportive footwear and follow the exercise plan you are given. Do not start aggressive stretching or repeated heel raises without an assessment, especially if the pain began suddenly. A clinician can also check whether another problem is contributing to heel or ankle pain.

Seek prompt medical assessment after a sudden snap, a feeling of being kicked in the calf, marked swelling or bruising, or difficulty pushing off or standing on tiptoe. These features can indicate a tendon tear rather than routine tendinitis. Arrange an assessment if pain is worsening, walking becomes difficult, or symptoms do not settle with sensible activity changes.

Ask whether the tendon is irritated or torn, which activities should be paused, and how your strengthening programme will be progressed. You can also ask when it is reasonable to resume running, whether footwear or work demands need adjustment, and which symptoms should prompt an earlier review.