Where is the pain — in the middle of the tendon, near the heel, or somewhere else around the ankle? When is it most noticeable: first steps in the morning, hills, speed work, or the day after a run? The answers help distinguish different problems; location alone is not a diagnosis.

For a typical midportion Achilles presentation, rehabilitation often combines a change in the amount and type of running with progressive calf and tendon loading. Complete rest may settle symptoms temporarily without rebuilding capacity. The right starting load depends on the individual and their response over time.

WHEN TO GET HELP

A sudden pop, marked weakness or inability to push off needs prompt medical assessment.

Further reading

This is general information, not a diagnosis or an individual rehabilitation plan. An assessment may change the advice that is right for you.