Achilles Tendinopathy Treatment from Board-Certified Podiatrists
Achilles tendinopathy — including tendinitis and tendinosis — is a common source of heel and lower leg pain. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, our podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of Achilles tendon disorders using the latest evidence-based approaches.
Understanding Achilles Tendinopathy
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. Overuse, improper footwear, biomechanical imbalances, and age-related changes can all contribute to tendon pain and dysfunction.
Symptoms typically include pain along the back of the heel or lower calf, stiffness (especially in the morning), swelling, and difficulty walking or running.
Our Treatment Approach
We develop individualized treatment plans that may include eccentric strengthening exercises, custom orthotics to correct biomechanical issues, shockwave therapy (ESWT), immobilization when needed, and advanced regenerative treatments. Surgery is reserved for cases that don’t respond to conservative care.
Get Relief Today
Early treatment of Achilles tendinopathy leads to better outcomes. Schedule your appointment at our Howell or Bloomfield Hills office.
Call us: (810) 206-1402
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Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Book Your AppointmentWhat Causes Achilles Tendinopathy?
Achilles tendinopathy develops when the tendon connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone becomes damaged from repetitive stress. Unlike acute tendinitis (short-term inflammation), tendinopathy involves structural degeneration of the tendon fibers—a process called failed healing response. Common triggers include sudden increases in running mileage, hill training, tight calf muscles, flat feet or overpronation, and wearing unsupportive footwear. Middle-aged recreational athletes are at highest risk, though the condition affects people of all activity levels.
Insertional vs. Non-Insertional Tendinopathy
The location of your pain determines the type of Achilles tendinopathy. Non-insertional tendinopathy affects the middle portion of the tendon (2–6 cm above the heel bone) and responds well to eccentric loading exercises. Insertional tendinopathy occurs where the tendon attaches to the calcaneus and is often associated with a Haglund deformity (bony bump) or calcification within the tendon. Each type requires a different treatment strategy for optimal outcomes.
Advanced Treatment Options
At Balance Foot & Ankle, we take an evidence-based approach to Achilles tendinopathy. Initial treatment typically includes eccentric strengthening exercises (the Alfredson protocol), custom orthotics to correct biomechanical imbalances, and activity modification. For patients who do not improve with conservative care, we offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT shockwave therapy, and magnetotransduction therapy (EMTT)—all available in-office. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be recommended for chronic cases. Surgical intervention is reserved for patients who fail six months of conservative treatment.
“The combination of shockwave therapy and custom orthotics finally resolved my chronic Achilles pain after years of suffering. Wish I had come sooner.”
— David R., Achilles Tendinopathy Patient
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Physical Examination
Your podiatrist palpates the tendon to locate the exact area of pain and swelling, and assesses range of motion and calf strength.
Diagnostic Imaging
Digital X-rays check for bone spurs at the insertion. Ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to evaluate tendon thickness and partial tears.
Customized Recovery Plan
You receive a step-by-step plan combining targeted exercises, orthotics, and in-office therapies to get you back to full activity.
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Your Expert Podiatrists
Serving Patients Across Southeast Michigan
Balance Foot & Ankle treats Achilles tendinopathy from two convenient locations. Our Howell office serves patients from Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, Fenton, Hamburg, Whitmore Lake, South Lyon, and throughout Livingston County. Our Bloomfield Hills office serves Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, Waterford, Commerce Township, Novi, and Walled Lake across Oakland County.
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Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Board-certified care at both Michigan locations
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Most insurance accepted · On-site X-ray · Board-certified podiatrists
Howell · (810) 206-1402 Bloomfield · (248) 335-0322Related Conditions We Treat
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