Does strength training rehabilitation treat achilles tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis, also called Achilles tendinopathy, can cause pain and stiffness near the heel or higher in the tendon. Rest alone may reduce activity without restoring the tendon’s ability to handle load. Rehabilitation commonly begins with manageable calf contractions and progresses to heel raises, heavier resistance and task-specific work. The appropriate range and tempo depend on the painful area, irritability, footwear, daily demands and examination findings.

Use the exercise dose prescribed by your physiotherapist and track pain during activity and the following morning. Keep walking within a tolerable level, choose supportive footwear if advised, and increase resistance or running volume gradually. Avoid sudden hills, repeated jumping or fast running while the tendon is reactive. A flare does not always mean damage, but a clear decline in function warrants a review of the load.

Seek urgent assessment after a sudden snap, a feeling of being kicked in the calf, a visible change in the tendon, or inability to push off or stand on the toes. Get medical advice for marked swelling, redness with fever, or pain that rapidly worsens. Persistent morning stiffness and reduced walking tolerance should be reassessed.

Is the pain coming from the Achilles tendon or another part of the heel? Which calf exercises and range are suitable? How should I respond to next-morning stiffness? What criteria should I meet before returning to running or jumping?