If you are experiencing painful swelling in the back of your foot just above the heel, you may be suffering from Achilles Tendonitis. This troublesome condition affects the Achilles tendon, which is the strongest and largest tendon in the body and connects the leg to the foot as it stretches from the lower leg to the heel bone. This tendon is crucial to normal walking patterns as it allows the foot to rise up on the toes.

This condition typically develops gradually as the tendon inflammation and may include one or more of the following three stages:

Peritenonitis – this stage is characterized by localized pain during or after activity

Tendinosis ­– typically an asymptomatic stage that may result in a nodule, or swelling at the back of the leg

Peritenonitis with tendinosis  - this stage may lead to a rupture of the tendon and it is characterized by pain and swelling during and after activity.

As with all health conditions, Achilles tendonitis is best treated early in the development of the condition. If you are experiencing pain and/or swelling in this region, a consultation with our experienced podiatry professionals will give you the best chance for a full recovery.