Achilles tendonitis is a very common and painful problem in the pathology of the Achilles tendon.

What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles Tendon rises out of the calf muscle at the back of the leg, attaching to your heel bone - it's essential for walking. Achilles Tendonitis is when this becomes injured or inflamed.

The tendon absorbs the energy from impact by stretching, then returns some of that stored energy during heel lift as we move forwards - a little bit like a spring. That energy is vital for walking, running or climbing, as it's what propels our foot when 'pushing off'.

Immediately after injury: Rest - Ice - Compression - Elevation will help reduce inflammation and aid a more rapid recovery.

For at home treatment and recovery, use a specially designed insole like the X-Line AT to ensure the right amount of pressure is on the right parts of your feet when walking. When your feet are better, an everyday pair of insoles like the Pressure Perfect will help them stay healthy and energised.

We recommend you use insoles as part of a wider treatment plan, which should include rehabilitative strengthening and stretching exercises using therapy balls and bands, as well as manual therapy.

Footwear should always be considered as a possible aggravator, so think about buying a more supportive pair of trainers or shoes. Specialist socks like the ToeToe Running Anklets have flaps to help protect the Achilles Tendon when exercising. Finally some people find a Gel Heel Cup helpful for cushioning their feet.