Share:

Achilles Tendonitis vs Achilles Tendinosis: Understanding Differences, Symptoms, and Treatments

The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body. It connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and enables activities like walking, running, and jumping. However, it is also prone to injury -particularly from overuse. Two common conditions affecting the Achilles tendon are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendinosis. Although their names sound similar, they differ in causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective recovery and prevention.

What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis is an acute inflammation of the Achilles tendon, typically caused by sudden increased activity or repetitive strain. It results in swelling, pain, and irritation along the tendon.

Typical pain in a male jogger`s achilles tendon. XXL size image.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis:

  • Sudden increase in physical activity or intensity
  • Overuse during running or jumping sports
  • Poor footwear
  • Training on hard surfaces
  • Tight calf muscles
  • Poor biomechanics

Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis:

  • Sharp or burning pain along the back of the heel or lower calf
  • Swelling and tenderness over the tendon
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
  • Pain worsens with activity

What Is Achilles Tendinosis?

Achilles tendinosis is a chronic condition characterized by degeneration of the tendon’s collagen fibers without significant inflammation. It often develops after untreated or recurrent Achilles tendonitis and results in thickening and weakening of the tendon. It’s essentially what can happen if Achilles tendonitis goes untreated.

Causes of Achilles Tendinosis:

  • Repeated micro-tears and poor healing
  • Chronic overuse without adequate rest
  • Aging and reduced blood supply to the tendon
  • Biomechanical abnormalities

Symptoms of Achilles Tendinosis:

  • Dull, persistent pain along the tendon
  • Thickened or nodular tendon
  • Decreased strength and flexibility in the calf and ankle
  • Pain may improve with warm-up but worsen with prolonged activity

Key Differences Between Tendonitis and Tendinosis

FeatureAchilles TendonitisAchilles TendInosis
NatureInflammatoryDegenerative (non-inflammatory)
DurationAcute or subacuteChronic, long-term
Tissue ConditionInflamed tendon fibersDegenerated, disorganized fibers
PainSharp, localizedDull, diffuse
Treatment FocusReduce inflammation, restPromote tendon healing, strengthen

Treatment Options

For Achilles Tendonitis:

  • Rest and activity modification
  • Ice and anti-inflammatory medications
  • Physical therapy focusing on stretching and strengthening
  • Proper footwear and orthotics
  • Gradual return to activity

For Achilles Tendinosis:

Prevention Tips

  • Warm up properly before exercise
  • Gradually increase activity intensity and duration
  • Wear supportive, well-fitting shoes
  • Maintain calf flexibility and strength
  • Avoid running on hard or uneven surfaces when possible

Do You Have Ankle Pain?

If you’re experiencing Achilles tendon pain or discomfort, don’t ignore it. Contact Feet First Clinic for a thorough assessment and personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet safely and effectively.

Related Posts

Book Online

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

Got questions? We're here to help.

Please fill out the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

If you’ve been to the clinic before, chances are you had the pleasure of meeting Carolina! Carolina’s daily goal is going above and beyond to make sure patients are always completely satisfied. Having worked in the podiatry industry for 22 years, Carolina brings a wealth of knowledge pertaining to client service, insurance policies, and procedures.​ She steers the ship to make sure everything runs smoothly on the daily. Carolina is known for spicing up every outfit with her signature costume jewellery.