Safe Movement Through the Right Treatment and Rehabilitation for Tendon Problems Causing Pain Between the Heel and Calf
What is Achilles tendinitis and why does it occur?
Achilles tendinitis is an inflammatory and degenerative condition caused by overloading of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.
This tendon:
- plays an active role in walking, running and jumping
- is one of the strongest tendons in the body
- works under constant load
The most important point: When the Achilles tendon is strained, it takes time to heal, and if it is not treated properly it can become chronic.
How does Achilles tendinitis develop?
The most common causes:
• a sudden increase in exercise
• running on hard surfaces
• unsuitable shoes
• tight calf muscles
• repetitive strain
It is common both in athletes and in people who lead active lives.
What symptoms appear?
• pain at the back of the heel
• stiffness with the first steps in the morning
• tenderness that increases with movement
• swelling over the tendon
• difficulty running or walking
The most typical finding: Pain and stiffness felt with the first steps in the morning
How is it diagnosed?
Clinical evaluation
• tendon tenderness
• movement analysis
• flexibility assessment
Imaging (when needed)
• ultrasound
• MRI
Early diagnosis prevents tendon damage from progressing.
How is treatment planned?
Treatment is determined according to the condition of the tendon:
Early phase
• reducing the load
• pain control
Rehabilitation process
• eccentric exercises
• calf muscle stretching
• a tendon loading program
Adjustments to daily life
• choosing suitable shoes
• modifying activities
Goal: To balance the load on the tendon
Why is rehabilitation the most critical stage?
Rehabilitation is the key to recovery from Achilles tendinitis.
With rehabilitation:
• tendon resilience is increased
• muscle–tendon coordination is achieved
• load tolerance is improved
• the risk of re-injury is reduced
Rest alone is not enough.
How are movement and return to sport planned?
The return process is determined by:
• pain-free walking and running
• tendon resilience
• balanced muscle strength
• functional tests.
Returning too early can increase the risk of a tendon rupture.
How is Achilles tendinitis managed at Romatem?
Romatem’s approach:
✔ a personalized exercise program
✔ tendon loading analysis
✔ a controlled rehabilitation process
The treatment process:
• pain control
• increasing flexibility
• strengthening
• controlled loading
• functional return
Goal: To ensure that the tendon heals in a healthy, strong way.
Which specialists are involved in Achilles tendinitis treatment?
• Sports Medicine Physician
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist
• Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist
• Physiotherapist
Which units support the treatment process?
• exercise and rehabilitation unit
• performance and motion analysis
• biomechanical assessment systems
• a dietitian when needed
Which centers offer this treatment?
Sports rehabilitation services are offered at all Romatem branches.
Frequently asked questions
Will this pain go away on its own?
Rehabilitation is needed for lasting treatment of Achilles tendinitis.
Can I keep running?
It is not recommended if there is pain; the load must be controlled.
How long does it take to heal?
If treatment begins early, it takes a few weeks. In chronic cases, recovery may take 3–6 months.
Does it recur?
Yes. It can recur if loading errors continue.
