What Achilles Pain Feels Like
Achilles tendinopathy is degeneration and disorganization of the Achilles tendon fibers from chronic overload. It's not a classic 'inflammation' injury — the modern model is that the tendon adapts poorly to load, thickens, and becomes painful. Two main types: insertional (at the heel) and mid-portion (2-6 cm above the heel).
- Morning stiffness in the Achilles for the first few steps
- Pinching pain at the back of the heel after sitting
- Visible or palpable thickening of the tendon
- Pain that warms up in the first mile but returns after
- Sharp pain pushing off in late-stage cases
Early Warning Signs
Catching achilles pain at this stage is the difference between a week of reduced training and a multi-week shutdown.
- Morning stiffness in the Achilles
- Stiffness that warms up in the first mile
- Pinch at the back of the heel after sitting
When to Stop and See a Clinician
- Pain that worsens during a run
- Visible thickening of the tendon
- Sharp pain pushing off
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