Symptoms of an Achilles Tendinopathy

A lot of people think they have problems in their Achilles Tendon when the problem is really a Posterior Impingement or Os Trigonum so an accurate diagnosis is essential. Symptoms often start gradually, often without any notable point of onset so determining one particular cause can be tricky.

Common Symptoms:

Morning stiffness and pain:

People with problems in their Achilles often notice it most first thing in the morning, finding it hard, or painful, to put their heels down. This is especially so in the later stages when degeneration is present. Pain can be felt in the tendon on rising or en fondu at the start of class, but often starts to feel better as you warm your way into it.

Pain at the back of the ankle:

Pain is usually felt along the back of the ankle, anywhere from the heel to approximately one third of the way up the lower leg. There is often localised pain if the tendon is squeezed, but be sure to compare to the other side, noting any differences in the tendon.

A constant need to stretch:

If degeneration is present dancers will often feel the need to stretch out the calves throughout the day. However, this never feels very effective, and unfortunately can often be actually making the symptoms worse.

Pain later in the day when loading the tendon:

Pain felt in the Achilles Tendon region will often get worse with activities that place stress on the calf region such as pliés, petit allegro or even walking and going up and down stairs.