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[Conditions](https://durgical.com/en/conditions/) · [Lower limb](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/region/lower-limb/)

# Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is an overuse problem of the [Achilles tendon](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/calcaneal-tendon/) above the heel; it causes pain, stiffness and thickening of the tendon.

Updated 2026-10-23

## Structures involved

Tap one to see what it is and open it in 3D.

- [Achilles tendon](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/calcaneal-tendon/)
- [Gastrocnemius (inner head)](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/medial-head-of-gastrocnemius/)
- [Gastrocnemius (outer head)](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/lateral-head-of-gastrocnemius/)
- [Soleus](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/soleus-muscle/)
- [Plantaris tendon](https://durgical.com/en/anatomy/tendon-of-plantaris/)

## In the clinical exam

- [Thompson test](https://durgical.com/en/clinical-exam/thompson-test/)

## Why it happens

- [Connective tissue proper: cells and fibres](https://durgical.com/en/histology/connective-tissue-proper-cells-and-fibres/)
- [Extracellular matrix: collagen types, elastin, ground substance](https://durgical.com/en/histology/extracellular-matrix-collagen-types-elastin-ground-substance/)

## What it is

Overuse condition of the Achilles tendon causing pain and thickening, usually in the midportion or at the insertion.

## Symptoms and signs

- Pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, worse with activity or in the morning
- Thickened tendon

## Diagnosis

**Clinical**
Exam and history of load

**Imaging**
Ultrasound or MRI if the diagnosis is unclear

## Treatment

**Rehabilitation**
Progressive tendon loading (eccentric or heavy slow resistance) is the main approach.

**Conservative**
Load management and activity changes.

## Related conditions

- [Achilles tendon rupture](https://durgical.com/en/conditions/achilles-tendon-rupture/)
- [Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints)](https://durgical.com/en/conditions/medial-tibial-stress-syndrome/)

Educational information, not medical advice. For any symptom, see a health professional.

Sources: [Achilles Tendinopathy](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538149/) (StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf), 2024).

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Representative model, for educational purposes only.

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Source: https://durgical.com/en/conditions/achilles-tendinopathy/
License: CC BY 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Cite as: DurgiPedia (durgical.com), https://durgical.com/en/conditions/achilles-tendinopathy/