Pain in the heel tendon (Achilles tendon)

Pain in the heel tendon is common in both athletes and other physically active people. The condition is harmless, and there is little chance of the tendon rupturing even if it is painful.

The pain is often experienced as stiffness in the tendon and up the calf at the start, but can get worse and prevent exercise and sometimes even walking. Fortunately, there is a good chance of getting well if you reduce your activity and wear good shoes. However, the pain can be long-lasting.

If you need treatment, an easy option is to use a heel wedge inside the shoes you normally wear. It should be approx. 12 mm high at the back, preferably made of cork. The pain is usually reduced after a couple of weeks, but the heel wedge should be used for 6 to 8 weeks. This can work well even if you have had the problems for a long time. Exercises that you can do yourself also work well for most people. Here you can see which simple exercises you can do. For those with long-term problems or where the Achilles problems are part of several problems in the leg, the exercises under Leg, ankle and foot also fit well.

There are many different treatments offered to those who do not get well (various injections, pressure waves, laser etc.), but none of these methods have shown a better effect than using a heel wedge or simple exercises. So be patient!