15 Tips to Self-Treat Achilles Tendinitis

Fit man gripping his injured calf muscle on a sunny dayAchilles tendinitis tends to affect runners more than any other group or athletic population. There is typically a high correlation to the amount of activity and volume performed in relation to biomechanical abnormalities and training errors which lead to Achilles tendinitis or tendinopathy.

The Achilles serves as the conjoined tendon for both calf muscles, the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Achilles tendinitis (also called tendonitis) is a serious condition for any athlete as it typically means a significant reduction in training volumes and modification to training routines. A complete stopping of sporting activities may be necessary in severe cases.

Learn the potential causative factors for Achilles tendinitis and how to self-treat this condition so you don’t lose too much time with your training.

15 Tips to Self-Treat Achilles Tendinitis

Risk Factors:

  • Age. The risk of injury increases with age, but on average the injury occurs between 30-50 years old.
  • Gender. Males are more commonly affected than females.
    Loss of ankle dorsiflexion (the movement of toes and ankle toward the shin bone).
  • Abnormal ankle motion.
  • Poor calcaneal stability during running. Most commonly seen in runners who over pronate, particularly during the heel strike and full weight acceptance in stance phase.
  • Decreased calf muscle strength.
  • Training errors including tapering up volume and intensity too quickly, such as a sudden increase in mileage, or increase in intensity.
  • Environmental factors like running on very hilly, uneven terrain or very hard surfaces, such as concrete. Cold weather training may also increase your risk.
  • Obesity, hypertension, increased cholesterol, and diabetes. These conditions affect the body’s blood flow and its ability to deliver nutrients.
  • Certain antibiotics. A reported 6% of cases of Achilles tendinopathy occur after taking the antibiotic, fluoroquinolone.
  • Certain forms of arthritis.

Common Symptoms:

  • Typically the pain is located to the mid portion of the Achilles tendon from the end of the muscle to the start of the heel (calcaneus).
  • Intermittent pain related to exercises or activity.
  • Stiffness upon weight bearing after prolonged immobility such as sleeping.
  • Stiffness and pain at the beginning of an exercise training session that lessens as exercise continues.
  • As the condition worsens, a progression from pain occurring at the end of an exercise session to experiencing pain throughout the duration of the activity.
  • As the condition worsens, pain and stiffness in the lower leg and ankle will worsen to the point that even walking can become difficult.

15 Tips to Self-Treat Achilles Tendinitis:

  1. Ice. Once symptoms develop, initiate an icing protocol. Apply the ice to painful areas of the Achilles and calf muscles. The rule for icing is to apply ice no more than twenty minutes per hour. Do not place the ice directly against the skin, especially if you are using a cold pack. Individuals with poor circulation or impaired sensation should take particular care when icing.

  2. Rest. Significantly reduce your training volume and intensity. More severe pain or prolonged pain over many weeks means that you may need to discontinue your activity for 2-4 weeks or longer (depending on the severity and duration of symptoms). Avoid exercises that place undue stress on the Achilles and calf muscles.

  3. Alter your training environment. Avoid hill training and hard surfaces like concrete. Instead, run on softer surfaces such as grass or a track.

  4. Initiate a stretching program. Stretching exercises, as demonstrated in Achilles Tendinitis Rehabilitation Exercises.pdf, can reduce pain and improve function in those who experience limited dorsiflexion range of motion. The initial focus is on stretching the calf muscles, but a full lower body stretching protocol should be initiated. Hold each of the following stretches for at least 30 seconds, 3 repetitions per side, 2-3 times a day. These stretches shouldn’t cause more than a mild increase in pain or discomfort.
    Gastrocnemius calf stretch

    Gastrocnemius calf stretch

    Soleus calf stretch

    Soleus calf stretch


  5. Warm up prior to exercise. If you continue with your training, you must focus on a proper warm up. I recommend that you increase your normal warm up time and perform a minimum of 10 minutes in order to increase blood flow to the area. This allows for better mobility and also prepares the tissues for exercise. Consider using a foam roller or self-massage tool to roll up and down the calf muscles as part of your warm up (as demonstrated in the rehabilitation exercises in tip #4). Limit prolonged static stretching before exercise because it may worsen performance.

  6. Cool down. After performing your exercises, take extra time to cool down and stretch. Focus on calf stretching as well as general lower extremity mobility stretches. Use the same self-massage tools as you did during your warm up.

  7. Self-mobilize the tissue. CalfMobilization_FoamRollerCalfMobilization_MassageToolSoft tissue mobilization can be used to reduce pain and improve mobility and function. Be sure to mobilize the tissue of the calf. For this particular area, you may want to use one of the self-massage tools referenced above as well as a tennis or lacrosse ball.

  8. Spot Train. Eccentric loading exercises of the calf muscles have shown to be highly effective in the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy and tendonitis. Eccentric means when the muscle lengthens during the exercise. A key exercise is the heel raise. Place your foot over the edge of a block or step. The upward lifting motion is concentric while the lowering downward motion is eccentric. The upward motion can be performed with both legs while the downward motion is only performed on the affected foot. Move slowly for 5 seconds down and repeat up to 30 repetitions. If the pain is severe, initially perform with an exercise band (instead of the block or step). For further instruction, please refer the rehabilitation exercises demonstrated in tip #4.

  9. Work on the stabilizing muscles of your hips and ankles. As part of a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol, I almost always have clients work on keeping the muscles of the pelvis, hips, and ankles strong. This will help to maintain normal gait mechanics during exercise and running. Not only will this help to treat potential weak areas that may have caused altered biomechanics leading to the injury, but it will likely help to prevent the development of other orthopaedic issues (such as hip or knee pain). Please refer to Ankle Resistance Exercises.pdf.

  10. Improve your lower body mobility. Mobility issues and myofascial restrictions may lead to altered biomechanics in the legs, ankles, and feet. Tightness in the lumbar spine, pelvis, IT Band, buttocks or in the deep hip internal or external rotators as well as poor ankle or foot mobility can be contributing factors to Achilles tendinitis or tendinopathy. Initiate a cross training program that involves yoga (or a full body stretching program) in combination with soft tissue mobilization.

  11. Consider changing your shoes. Your shoes may be worn out and may be the cause of the pain. If you wear a shoe that helps to limit overpronation, remember that the inner cushion and structure of the shoe can wear out before its outer appearance. If this occurs, the shoe can no longer adequately control inappropriate foot and heel movements such as overpronation. Shoes only last 350-500 miles. If you are nearing those miles, then it may be time to change.

  12. Add an orthotic. Additional foot control is often needed to normalize gait mechanics. Many running stores sell an over the counter orthotic such as Superfeet Premium Insoles. In my experience, these types of insoles can last 1,000 to 1,500 miles easily. If the over the counter options aren’t helping you, please see a physical therapist or podiatrist for custom orthotics.

  13. Add a heel lift as a temporary measure to relieve pressure off of the Achilles tendon. (I only recommend this as an initial treatment option in cases of extreme pain.) If the lift is used too long, then the tendon and muscle can begin to shorten–ultimately worsening the condition. In the short term (typically up to a week), a heel lift can be a helpful method in reducing pain, strain, and inflammation to the area.

  14. Hydrate more frequently. The human body is primarily made of water, which is critical for all body functions. I highly encourage you to hydrate more frequently during recovery. Adequate water intake is critical to avoid dehydration which can negatively affect your training. Dehydrated tissues are prone to injury as they struggle to gain needed nutrients to heal and repair. Dehydrated tissues are less flexible and tend to accumulate waste products. Adequate hydration helps insure that much needed nutrients are being delivered to the area.

  15. Seek Help. If you’re not experiencing relief after a week or two of aggressively managing the symptoms, contact your local physical therapist for an assessment and help in managing the condition. The American Physical Therapy Association offers a wonderful resource to help find a physical therapist in your area. You may need assistance in identifying the biomechanical cause of the condition in order to eliminate the pain. A custom orthotic may be necessary or modalities, such as iontophoresis or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), may be indicated.

RETURN TO RUNNING

Prior to returning to your normal training activities, insure the following:

  • Your involved leg is as mobile and flexible as the other (particularly into dorsiflexion, which is flexing your ankle toward your shin bone).
  • Your involved leg is as strong as the other leg.
  • Your ability to balance is equal in both legs.
  • You can jog, run, sprint and jump without pain.

If you are not progressing after 2-3 weeks of implementing these treatment options, please speak to your medical professional so you don’t lose too much time with your training. As you taper back into your running program, follow these guidelines:

  • Initially start with level terrain only before progressing to uneven ground and hills
  • Initially limit your running distance. I recommend starting with a distance approximately 50-75% of your pre-injury distance.
  • Initially start with a slower pace and intensity. Don’t immediately progress back into very intense running activities, such as interval or hill training, until you have worked back up to your previous running distances and paces without pain.
  • Continue with the rehabilitation protocol until you are performing all of the exercises and running normally without pain.

Achilles tendinitis can be very debilitating and demoralizing, but it can be self-treated if addressed at the onset of pain. Early management is important for a timely recovery. For additional information on common running injuries and how to self-treat, please visit www.thePhysicalTherapyAdvisor.com.

13 Responses to 15 Tips to Self-Treat Achilles Tendinitis

  1. Ben Shatto July 28, 2015 at 8:38 pm #

    I would be very interested to hear of other treatments people found effective in treating Achilles tendonitis. I have been experimenting with clients using the Voo Doo floss band from Rogue Fitness. Has anybody found it helpful?

  2. John August 9, 2015 at 7:49 pm #

    Thanks for this useful information. After treating my achilles tendinitis off and on mediocrely for 3 months and still experiencing pain ( especially when I first get out of the bed in the morning ) I decided to start getting some professional physical therapy, I’m told to reduce my running to 3 miles at most but with my next marathon within 2 months I find it difficult not to run. Will this prolong my recovery?

  3. Ben Shatto August 10, 2015 at 8:55 pm #

    John, great question and I am sorry to hear you are suffering with this. Having a marathon so soon does make treatment options and a proper recovery more difficult. But it can be done. I would follow the recommendation to reduce training volume initially. The critical part will be what you do to help rehabilitate during this time and how you will cross train to maintain a high fitness level so you can be prepared for your upcoming marathon. Your rehab and return to full running will be dependent on the extent of the injury and your pre-injury skill level. My initial recommendation would be to decrease your training volume while you aggressively treat the condition utilizing all available treatment modalities including manual therapy techniques such as Graston. I would also recommend that whoever is working with you take a thorough look at foot motion and hip motion/stability to be sure all potential causes for the tendonitis are addressed. Also I would highly recommend a supplement protocol. You want to do anything and everything you can do to help heal faster.
    Here is a “16th” Tip.
    Start a supplement. Achilles tendinitis is typically associated with a specific event such as a sudden change in training volume or intensity. An active inflammatory process typically occurs. I am a supporter of natural supplements and remedies. Many supplements include herbs which are designed to help reduce inflammation. Phenocane Natural Pain Management combines the following: Curcumin, an herb that reduces pain and inflammation; boswellia, a natural COX2 inhibitor that also reduces pain and inflammation; DLPA, an amino acid that helps to increase and uphold serotonin levels in the brain; and nattokinase, an enzyme that assists with blood clotting and reduces pain and inflammation.

    My most recommended supplement to help recover from injury is CapraFlex by Mt. Capra. Essentially, it combines an organic glucosamine and chondroitin supplement with other natural herbs which are designed to reduce inflammation. CapraFlex can be taken long term or intermittently. Another supplement I also recommend is called CapraColostrum by Mt. Capra. Colostrum is the first milk produced by female mammals after giving birth. It contains a host of immunoglobulins, anti-microbial peptides, and other growth factors. It is especially good at strengthening the intestinal lining which prevents and heals conditions associated with a leaky gut. Colostrum can also help a person more effectively exercise in hotter conditions. Over all, it can boost the immune system, assist with intestinal issues, and help the body to recover faster.

    Like CapraFlex, Tissue Rejuvenator by Hammer Nutrition contains glucosamine and chondroitin as well as a host of herbs, spices, and enzymes to help support tissues and limit inflammation. I recommend taking either CapraFlex OR Tissue Rejuvenator. You can take CapraColostrum independently or in conjunction with either CapraFlex or Tissue Rejuvenator.

    I initially recommend trying a 30 day protocol. If the supplements are aiding your recovery, you may choose to continue taking them for an additional 30 days. I sometimes implement this protocol as part of a prevention strategy during times of heavy volume or high intensity training. (Please consult with your pharmacist and/or physician prior to starting any new supplementation protocol. Herbs could interact with some medications particularly if you are taking blood thinners.)

    As far as cross training goes I recommend you incorporate aqua jogging into your routine to help maintain your fitness level. Depending on your marathon experience and daily activities you may need to spend more time on your feet. I find that beginning marathoners struggle in races simply because their lower body is not ready to handle 4-5 hours on a hard surface. So though you need to taper down running volume you will need to taper up time on your feet. If you work in an office consider a standing desk, otherwise you may want to find ways to spend more time on your feet and legs just standing on a similar surface as you will be running on.
    If your treatment is progressing much slower than you had hoped then you may want to consider postponing the race. Though this is disappointing you want your races to be fun. It is never worth a serious long term issue just to complete a race. Injuries sometimes happen and can take longer than expected to recover. Best to keep the body healthy so you can enjoy marathoning your whole life. Good Luck!

  4. John August 11, 2015 at 12:01 pm #

    I didn’t know if I will get a response to my question let alone a detailed response. Thank you so much for your response, I will implement the supplementation and Aqua jogging as you recommend as I continue to treat aggressively.

    • Ben Shatto August 12, 2015 at 6:45 am #

      Good luck John and keep us posted on your journey.

  5. Williamfata May 6, 2016 at 1:53 pm #

    I truly appreciate this article post.Really thank you! Want more.

  6. Ben May 6, 2016 at 9:12 pm #

    Thanks for your feedback! I appreciate hearing from you.

    Here are two other posts (including a video) that you may not have seen yet and that I believe you would find helpful:

    http://www.thephysicaltherapyadvisor.com/MTA/

    http://www.thephysicaltherapyadvisor.com/2015/09/30/how-to-apply-kinesiological-tape-when-treating-achilles-tendinitis/

  7. Cristy December 26, 2017 at 1:12 pm #

    Hi Ben,

    Awesome article. I just completed an 18 mile training run and am having what I believe to be achilles tendonitis in my right leg. My marathon is in three weeks. Am I better off trying to rehab and get the race run or do you think that three weeks is not enough time to completely heal an injury like this and I’m better off deferring for a later date?

    Thanks in advance.

  8. Ben Shatto December 26, 2017 at 4:11 pm #

    Hi Cristy,

    Sorry to hear about the Achilles issue. Your question is a tough one and something Trevor wrestled with in his podcast The marathon that got away. This is really an individual decision. I don’ t know how important this race is for you? In 3 weeks you can definitely start the rehab process and progress fairly quickly if the pain isn’t too bad and you get right at the root cause of the problem. Sounds like you have the distance needed to complete the run, so you could start an early taper and do cross training or aqua jogging to keep the cardio respiratory fitness up. So to sum it all up….yes it can be done in 3 weeks, though there is a risk it could worsen. You will have to know your body and how much it can take. In cases like yours if it is not clear cut I will help clients do whatever they want as long as they understand the risks. I hope that helps you with your decision. If you attempt the race and it goes bad you can always drop out or you could consider just doing a half this go around as an alternative. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

  9. Brian July 30, 2018 at 11:55 am #

    Hi Ben,

    I just ran across the article. I have strained my Achilles (sore to the touch) and was wondering if tapping it would help further damage for an OCR race I have coming this Saturday. I think the soreness will be gone in a couple of days and so far the range of motion and strength appear to not be hindered. I just can’t find anything on the web that deals with athletes who are still training/racing and whether adding support during the activity is helpful. Thanks.

    • Ben Shatto July 30, 2018 at 9:16 pm #

      Hi Brian, the research on taping is not entirely clear but it does not seem to be harmful it just isn’t clear as to how helpful it is. I know that I have used it with clients with good success so if you are not having pain or loss or range of motion you likely can race. But I would go easy and be sure to be very warmed up. Here is a link to a video I did on Achilles taping. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oISSqjMxB4

  10. Ming Yu February 9, 2023 at 8:57 am #

    This is a very useful article – thank you so much Ben for sharing your knowledge. It’s also nice to see your detailed and thoughtful responses to questions. All the best and thank you. I have persistent achilles tendonitis from tennis but I haven’t been very systematic with my self-treatment so this article is a great resource and motivator.

    • Ben Shatto February 11, 2023 at 3:12 pm #

      Thanks for your feedback. I appreciate it. Best of luck to you. Take care.

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