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What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It’s the largest tendon in the body and absorbs tremendous force with every step.

When the tendon becomes irritated or inflamed, the result is Achilles tendonitis — a painful condition common in runners, athletes, and active adults.

If untreated, tendonitis can progress to partial or full‑thickness tendon tears.

Common Symptoms

• Pain in the back of the heel

• Stiffness in the morning

• Swelling or thickening of the tendon

• Pain that worsens with activity

• Difficulty running or jumping

• A popping sensation (possible tear)

• Weakness when pushing off the foot

Why Achilles Tendonitis Happens

Achilles injuries often develop due to:

• Running or jumping sports

• Sudden increases in activity

• Tight calf muscles

• Flat feet or high arches

• Poor shoe support

• Overuse

• Previous tendon injuries

Without treatment, chronic inflammation can weaken the tendon and lead to tears.

Achilles Tendon Tears

A tear may be present if you experience:

• Sudden sharp pain in the heel

• A popping sensation

• Difficulty bearing weight

• Swelling and bruising

• Trouble pushing off the foot

Tears often occur in patients with chronic tendonitis or sudden forceful movements.

When Achilles Tendon Problems Become a Problem

You should be seen if you experience:

• Daily heel pain

• Morning stiffness

• Pain that worsens with activity

• Swelling along the tendon

• Difficulty running or exercising

• A popping sensation

• Pain that interferes with work or sports

If your heel pain is accompanied by arch collapse, it may be related to Adult Flatfoot or PTTD.

Treatment Options

At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Institute, our team — Dr. Samant, Dr. Sibel, Dr. Savage, and Dr. Solomon — offers:

• Custom Orthotics

• Heel lifts

• Anti‑inflammatory treatments

• Shockwave therapy (Coming Soon)

• Physical therapy

• Immobilization for tendon tears

• PRP injections for chronic tendon damage 

For advanced cases, learn more about surgical options on our Reconstructive Surgery page.

Do Achilles Tendon Tears Require Surgery?

Not always. Many patients improve with conservative care. However, surgery may be recommended if:

• Pain persists despite treatment

• The tendon is torn

• Daily activities are limited

• Weakness continues

• The tear affects mobility

Our specialists offer modern tendon repair and reconstruction techniques designed for long‑term relief.

Schedule an Appointment

Call Our Office at 702.997.9833

Author

Priya Samant, DPM Priya Samant, DPM, is a podiatrist working at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Institute in Henderson, Nevada. Originally from Northern California, Dr. Samant now considers Las Vegas her home. Dr. Samant attended the University of San Francisco, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in biology. She then attended Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago and spent nearly a decade training in the Midwest. Dr. Samant gained her podiatric experience at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan. She spent three years training in diabetic limb salvage, wound care, and Charcot's foot. She also treats foot and ankle pathologies from ingrown toenails to plantar fasciitis and trauma. Dr. Samant takes the time and effort to provide her patients with the most functional and effective treatment plans to ensure a speedy recovery. She has been practicing in Las Vegas for several years. When Dr. Samant is not working, she is spending time with her two daughters and husband. She loves to hike, cook, and