Your Achilles Is Screaming—But You’re Not Sure Why

It starts as a tight feeling at the back of your heel.
Then it turns into a dull ache.
And before long, every step feels like someone’s jabbing your lower leg with a hot needle.

You try to “walk it off.”
You stretch.
You ice.

But the pain always comes back.

If this sounds familiar, chances are you’re dealing with Achilles tendonitis—and no, it’s not just a “runner’s injury.”

This condition affects office workers, walkers, gym-goers, and weekend warriors alike.

And while it can be frustrating and stubborn, Achilles tendonitis is very treatable—with the right plan.

What Exactly Is Achilles Tendonitis?

Your Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel.
It’s responsible for every step, jump, or push-off you make.

Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of that tendon—caused by overuse, poor mechanics, or sudden changes in activity.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain and stiffness at the back of the heel (especially in the morning)

• Tenderness when pressing the tendon

• Discomfort when walking, running, or standing for long periods

• Swelling or thickening around the tendon

Why It Happens

At Physiotherapy Ballincollig, we see Achilles issues triggered by a range of everyday factors:

1. Sudden Increase in Activity

Jumped into a new workout routine? Increased running distance? That spike in load can overload your Achilles.

2. Poor Footwear

Flat, unsupportive shoes—especially when training or walking long distances—can strain the tendon.

3. Tight Calves + Weak Glutes

This combo places all the demand on your Achilles to do the work your larger muscle groups should be sharing.

4. Old Injuries Left Unchecked

A previous ankle or foot injury that wasn’t properly rehabbed can quietly change how you walk—and load the tendon the wrong way.

Why Rest Alone Won’t Fix It

Sure, resting might ease the pain for a bit.
But once you’re active again? The pain returns.

That’s because rest doesn’t restore strength, mobility, or proper tendon loading.

You don’t need more rest. You need rehab.

How We Fix Achilles Tendonitis the Right Way

At Rehab Services Ballincollig, we follow a clear, evidence-based roadmap to get you pain-free and moving again:

✅ 1. Full Biomechanical Assessment

We don’t just look at your heel—we examine:

• How you walk

• Calf flexibility

• Ankle range of motion

• Glute and hamstring activation

• Foot posture and arch support

This helps us uncover why the tendon is irritated.

✅ 2. Load It—The Smart Way

We use eccentric strengthening—a proven method that helps the tendon heal and grow stronger under controlled stress.

You’ll start with slow heel drops and progress as pain allows.
These are not just “exercises”—they’re your comeback strategy.

✅ 3. Mobilise and Stretch (When Appropriate)

Tight calves and ankles? We release and stretch the tissues safely—without aggravating the tendon.

But we don’t use generic stretches that put more strain on an already inflamed area.

✅ 4. Rebuild Strength and Stability

We progress your rehab with:

• Single-leg balance work

• Resistance band training

• Glute and core strengthening

• Gradual return-to-running or sports drills

All tailored to your life, goals, and fitness level.

Why Choose Us?

As a trusted Chartered Physiotherapist Cork, we don’t believe in band-aid solutions.
We believe in lasting results.

Whether your goal is walking pain-free, returning to sport, or chasing the kids around the park—we help you get there.

Achilles Pain Shouldn’t Define Your Day

You don’t need to limp through life.
You don’t need to give up the activities you love.
You just need a plan that works.

Book your Achilles assessment today at our Sports Injury Clinic Ballincollig.

Let’s get you back on your feet—with strength, confidence, and no more heel pain.
Movement is your right—let us help you reclaim it.