Achilles Pain When Running? A Sports Podiatrist's Approach
If you're experiencing achilles pain when running, you're not alone. This is one of the most common complaints we see at Lower Limb Clinic, and it's often a sign of Mid-Portion Achilles Tendinopathy or Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy. The good news? With proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients experience significant improvement within 8-16 weeks for full recovery.
Common Causes of Achilles Pain When Running
Mid-Portion Achilles Tendinopathy
The most common running-related Achilles problem. Repetitive loading causes tendon degeneration 2-6cm above the heel, with pain during and after running.
Who typically experiences this: Runners who've increased training, those returning after a break, runners with calf weakness.
Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy
Pain at the tendon's attachment to the heel bone, often with a bump. Can be aggravated by shoes that press on the back of the heel.
Who typically experiences this: Runners with tight calves, those who wear low-drop shoes.
Achilles Paratendinitis
Inflammation of the tissue surrounding the tendon causes pain and sometimes a creaking sensation with movement.
Who typically experiences this: Runners who've suddenly increased mileage, those running on uneven surfaces.
Without proper assessment, it's impossible to know exactly what's causing your achilles pain when running. What works for Mid-Portion Achilles Tendinopathy may not help—or could worsen—Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
You should book an assessment if:
- Achilles pain with every run
- Pain is getting worse despite reducing training
- Morning stiffness lasts more than 30 minutes
- You notice swelling or thickening of the tendon
"Most patients we see have tried various home remedies before booking. You're not wasting our time—persistent symptoms warrant professional assessment."
Our Diagnostic Approach
At your initial consultation, we'll:
Take a detailed history
Understanding when your achilles pain when running started, what makes it better or worse, and your activity levels.
Physical examination
Hands-on assessment of your foot, ankle, and lower limb.
Biomechanical assessment
Evaluating how you stand and walk, identifying any contributing factors.
Gait analysis (if indicated)
Video and pressure plate analysis to understand your movement patterns.
We'll explain our findings clearly and discuss all treatment options before recommending a plan.
How We Treat Achilles Pain When Running
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Load management
Structured training modification—often you can keep running with adjustments
Eccentric strengthening
The gold-standard treatment for Achilles tendinopathy
Gait analysis
Identify running form factors contributing to tendon load
Shockwave therapy
Accelerate healing in chronic or resistant cases
"We don't believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Your plan will be tailored to your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals."
"I'd been suffering with achilles pain when running for months before finally coming to Lower Limb Clinic. Within weeks of starting treatment, the improvement was remarkable. Wish I'd come sooner!"
— Verified Patient Review
Common Questions About Achilles Pain When Running
Ready to Find Out What's Causing Your Achilles Pain When Running?
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