Are you experiencing pain at the back of your heel or ankle, especially after physical activity or long hours on your feet? You might be dealing with Achilles tendonitis — a common overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. This condition is especially prevalent in active individuals, runners, and people who stand for long periods. At our Greenslopes podiatry clinic, we specialise in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendon injuries, including the two main types: insertional Achilles tendonitis and mid-portion Achilles tendonitis. In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between these types and how we can help you return to pain-free movement.

What Is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles tendonitis refers to inflammation or irritation of the Achilles tendon, the thick band that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. This condition is usually caused by overuse, poor biomechanics, or inadequate footwear.

Achilles tendonitis is more common in runners, active individuals, and middle-aged people, but it can affect anyone—especially those who stand for long periods or wear unsupportive shoes.

---

1. Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Insertional Achilles tendonitis affects the lower portion of the tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus).

Symptoms:

• Pain and swelling at the back of the heel

• Tenderness at the tendon’s insertion point

• Pain with activities like walking uphill or standing on tiptoes

• Morning stiffness or pain after resting

• Sometimes a visible bony bump (bone spur) at the back of the heel

Common Causes:

• Overuse from running or jumping

• Tight calf muscles placing excess tension on the tendon

• Inappropriate footwear with poor heel or arch support

• Age-related tendon degeneration

---

2. Mid-Portion Achilles Tendonitis

Mid-portion Achilles tendonitis affects the section of the tendon located 2–6 cm above the heel, away from the heel bone. This is the most common form of Achilles tendonitis.

Symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness in the middle of the tendon

• Swelling or thickening of the tendon

• Pain during physical activity, especially running

• Morning stiffness or discomfort after long periods of rest

• A dull or burning sensation along the tendon

Common Causes:

• Repetitive strain from running, jumping, or climbing stairs

• A sudden increase in training intensity or frequency

• Muscle imbalances or weak calf muscles

• Footwear lacking cushioning or arch support

---

Key Differences Between Insertional and Mid-Portion Achilles Tendonitis

---

How We Treat Achilles Tendonitis in Greenslopes

At our Brisbane podiatry clinic, we take a comprehensive, biomechanical approach to treating Achilles tendon injuries. Your treatment plan will be tailored to the type and severity of your tendonitis and may include:

1. Rest and Activity Modification

We’ll advise on reducing high-impact activities and modifying movement patterns to prevent further tendon stress.

2. Physical Therapy & Strengthening

We provide guided rehabilitation programs including eccentric loading exercises, stretching, and strengthening to restore tendon function and reduce recurrence.

3. Custom Orthotics & Footwear Advice

We’ll assess your gait and footwear and may recommend custom orthotics or supportive shoes to offload stress from the Achilles tendon.

4. Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive option that stimulates healing and improves blood flow in chronic cases that are not responding to other treatments.

5. Surgical Referral

In rare, severe cases—especially where bone spurs or tendon degeneration are involved—we may refer you for surgical evaluation.

Further reading and resources:

• Better Health Channel (VIC Government):
  Achilles tendonitis – Better Health Channel

• Healthdirect Australia:
  Achilles tendinitis – Healthdirect

• Australian Podiatry Association:
  Podiatry Care & Footwear Advice

---

Achilles Pain? Visit Our Greenslopes Podiatry Clinic Today

Whether you’re struggling with insertional or mid-portion Achilles tendonitis, early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan can significantly reduce your recovery time.

At our biomechanics-focused podiatry practice in Greenslopes, Brisbane, we’re here to help you walk, run, and move without pain.

Book an Appointment Today

If you’re dealing with persistent Achilles pain, contact our clinic today to book a comprehensive assessment with our experienced podiatrists.