What Is Achilles Tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury where the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed from repeated stress that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Woman holding up white sneaker with Pinnacle Neutral insoles inside. What is Achilles Tendinitis? It is an injury where the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed from repeated stress that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness.Woman holding up white sneaker with Pinnacle Neutral insoles inside. What is Achilles Tendinitis? It is an injury where the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed from repeated stress that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness.

What Is Achilles Tendinitis?

Achilles tendinitis, also spelled tendonitis, is an overuse injury commonly experienced by runners and athletes. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon from repeated stress can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. Treatments include rest, self-care, physical therapy, and using orthotic devices like braces, supports, and shoe inserts.

illustration of a foot with Achilles tendonitis beside a closeup image showing the inflamed tendon

Do I Have Achilles Tendonitis?

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, running down the back of lower leg. The largest tendon in the body, it is used when walking, running, climbing stairs, or standing on your toes. Achilles tendonitis is acute inflammation of the Achilles tendon that occurs from repeated stress or overuse.

There are two types of Achilles tendonitis that may or may not coexist:

  • Noninsertional Achilles tendinitis affects the middle part of the tendon that may break down over time, causing it to swell and thicken. Younger, active individuals are more prone to this type of tendinitis.
  • Insertional Achilles tendinitis happens where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. Here, damaged tissues harden with time and form heel spurs. Though it can affect anyone, long distance runners and people with tight calf muscles are at risk.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendonitis can feel like a mild ache in the back of the lower leg and heel that worsens with physical activity. It may take several weeks for symptoms to fully show. If you have constant Achilles tendon pain or heel pain, stop any physical activities and see your doctor.

Achilles tendinitis symptoms include:

  • Pain or stiffness in the morning
  • Pain that worsens with activity or after exercise
  • Warmth or tenderness around the heel
  • Swelling around the heel and tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon
  • Back of heel pain when wearing shoes
  • Reduced range of motion when flexing the foot or ankle
  • Weakness in the lower leg

If left untreated, Achilles tendinitis can lead to a rupture that requires surgery. Though most cases do not result from sudden injury, a popping sensation in the back of your calf or heel could be an Achilles tendon rupture and requires immediate medical attention.

Medical Devices & Insoles for Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendinitis medical devices help align the feet and ankle and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon to promote healing. For support in your everyday shoes, running shoes, and work shoes, PowerStep® orthotics and heel lifts can provide relief for Achilles tendon pain and prevent recurrence.

Adjustable Heel Lift

The PowerStep® Adjustable Heel Lift provides a slight lift plus comfortable cushioning that helps take stress off the Achilles tendon and shortening the range of motion. Designed to absorb shock and relieve pain, heel lifts help the Achilles tendon heal and recover.

Side view of PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift, dark blue, accommodates leg length discrepancy by providing 1/8, 1/4, or 3/8 inch additional height adjustment at the heel
Side view of PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift, dark blue, accommodates leg length discrepancy by providing 1/8, 1/4, or 3/8 inch additional height adjustment at the heel
PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift. Relieve Your Heels: Leg Length Discrepancy, Heel Spurs/Heel Pain, Achilles Tendonitis, Post Surgical Issues. Woman grabbing at foot.
PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift Review: Subject: “Love these!” 5 star review: “I depend on these lifts to keep my sacroiliac joint in balance. They have made all the different!” – Barbara M.
PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift Sizing. Provides 1/8”, 1/4”, or 3/8” additional heel height. Women’s sizes: Small 5-6, Medium 7-11; Men’s sizes: Small 4-5; Medium 6-9; Large 10-13
PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift helps with Achilles tendon strains, Achilles tendonitis, leg length discrepancies, post-surgical issues. Instructions: Slip Adjustable Heel Lift into shoe and check comfort level. If needed, peel off layers to achieve desired lift height.
Profile view of PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift, layers of black sponge material can be peeled away for custom height adjustment
Front of Adjustable Heel Lift in blue and white packaging in clear bag. Relieves & prevents pain. Relief of leg length discrepancies and heel pain.
Back of Adjustable Heel Lift in clear bag. Dark blue heel lift visible in the back of the bag.

PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift | Heel Cushion for Heel Pain & Heel Height Adjustment

$15.95

Pinnacle Insoles

PowerStep® Pinnacle orthotic insoles help prevent and relieve pain from Achilles tendonitis and other common conditions. Also available as Pinnacle Low insoles for flat feet, our podiatrist-designed arch cradles the arch and heel, aligning the feet and ankles plus limiting stress on feet, ankles, joints, and tendons.

Bottom view of shoe inserts for Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Shoe Insoles with blue EVA base, top view of shoe insoles with blue polyester top fabric, image of Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Insoles packaging, profile view of Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Insoles with semi-rigid neutral arch support, relief of plantar fasciitis, pronation, foot, arch and heel pain, sore aching feet, standard arch support for pronation, arch support insoles for women
Bottom view of shoe inserts for Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Shoe Insoles with blue EVA base, top view of shoe insoles with blue polyester top fabric, image of Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Insoles packaging, profile view of Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Insoles with semi-rigid neutral arch support, relief of plantar fasciitis, pronation, foot, arch and heel pain, sore aching feet, standard arch support for pronation, arch support insoles for women
PowerStep is the #1 podiatrist recommended brand of orthotics. 90% of PowerStep® users experienced less foot, knee or back pain within 2 weeks. *Based on PowerStep customer survey conducted August 2021.
Man sitting on chair placing PowerStep Pinnacle insoles into dark gray sneakers
Neutral arch support & deep heel cradle: ideal for neutral foot alignment to help support & maintain form. Made in the USA with globally sourced materials.
Relieves & Prevents Pain: Relief of plantar fasciitis, mild to moderate pronation, foot, arch, and heel pain, sore, aching feet. PowerStep is proven clinically effective in improving foot function. Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Chart with PowerStep Pinnacle dimensions by size. 12 US shoe sizes. Refer to insole diagram indicating measurement locations for data points 1-4. Measurements for data points 5-7 will remain the same across all insole sizes within this family.
Floating Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Insoles, arch support shoe inserts for women, arch support shoe inserts for men, unisex shoe inserts, insoles for pronation, mild overpronation, neutral arch support for plantar fasciitis, arch support to correct malalignment from pronation
Top view of Pinnacle Neutral Arch Support Shoe insoles with blue polyester top fabric, walking shoe insoles, men's shoes, women's shoes, these shoes inserts help relieve and prevent pain from conditions caused by foot malalignment, relief from mild overpronation, relief from plantar fasciitis pain, relief from pronation, orthotic shoe inserts, arch supporting orthotic insoles, plantar fasciitis orthotics
View of Pinnacle Neutral orthotic arch support shoe inserts from heel to toe, relieves foot, arch, and heel pain, and sore, aching feet, shoe insoles for walking, men’s orthotic shoe inserts, women’s orthotic shoe inserts, neutral arch support helps to correct pronation and prevent plantar fasciitis
Profile view of Pinnacle Neutral arch supporting shoe insoles with semi-rigid arch support for pronation, arch support for plantar fasciitis, designed for walking and running shoes, shoe inserts to help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, orthotic shoe insoles with standard arch support
Image breakdown by layer of the Pinnacle Neutral Arch Supporting shoe inserts for walking, semi-rigid support shell is firm but flexible for increased comfort and stability, top fabric reduces heat, friction, and sweat, neutral arch support and heel cradle to provide heel stability, EVA foam base and foam top layer provide dual layer cushioning, insoles for casual shoes, insoles for walking shoes, orthotic insoles for plantar fasciitis, relieve heel pain, shoe inserts for sore, achy feet

PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles | Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Relief Orthotic

$49.95

PULSE® Performance Insoles

Designed by runners for runners, the PowerStep® PULSE® Performance insoles have our same clinically proven arch and heel support plus ShockAbsorb™ Premium Foam. These running shoe insoles enhance comfort from heel to toe and absorb shock to reduce stress on the feet, ankles, joints, and tendons.

Bottom view of shoe inserts for PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Running Shoe Insoles with orange EVA base, top view of shoe insoles with orange and yellow polyester top fabric, image of PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Insoles packaging, profile view of PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Insoles with semi-rigid neutral arch support, relief of plantar fasciitis, pronation, foot, arch and heel pain, sore aching feet, standard arch support for pronation
Bottom view of shoe inserts for PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Running Shoe Insoles with orange EVA base, top view of shoe insoles with orange and yellow polyester top fabric, image of PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Insoles packaging, profile view of PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Orthotic Insoles with semi-rigid neutral arch support, relief of plantar fasciitis, pronation, foot, arch and heel pain, sore aching feet, standard arch support for pronation
PowerStep is the #1 podiatrist recommended brand of orthotics. 90% of PowerStep® users experienced less foot, knee or back pain within 2 weeks. *Based on PowerStep customer survey conducted August 2021.
Man outside placing PULSE Performance insole into gray running shoe
Premium dual-layer cushioning: Responsive, semi-rigid arch support with premium dual-layer cushioning for superior shock absorption. Made in the USA with globally sourced materials.
Relieves & Prevents Pain: Relief of plantar fasciitis, mild to moderate pronation, foot, arch, and heel pain, sore, aching feet. PowerStep is proven clinically effective in improving foot function. Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Chart with PowerStep PULSE Performance dimensions by size. 12 US shoe sizes. Refer to insole diagram indicating measurement locations for data points 1-4. Measurements for data points 5-7 will remain the same across all insole sizes within this family.
Floating PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Running Insoles, arch support shoe inserts for women, arch support shoe inserts for men, unisex shoe inserts, insoles for pronation, mild overpronation, neutral arch support for plantar fasciitis, arch support to correct malalignment from pronation, arch support for sports
Top view of PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Support Shoe insoles with orange and yellow polyester top fabric, shoe insoles for runners, men's shoes, women's shoes, these shoes inserts help relieve and prevent pain from conditions caused by foot malalignment, relief from mild overpronation, relief from plantar fasciitis pain, relief from pronation, orthotic shoe inserts, arch supporting orthotic insoles, plantar fasciitis orthotics, running shoe inserts for athletes
View of PULSE Performance Neutral orthotic arch support running shoe inserts from heel to toe, relieves foot, arch, and heel pain, and sore, aching feet, shoe insoles for runners, men’s orthotic shoe inserts, women’s orthotic shoe inserts, neutral arch support helps to correct pronation and prevent plantar fasciitis, orthotic shoe insoles for athletes
Profile view of PULSE Performance Neutral arch supporting shoe insoles with semi-rigid arch support for pronation, arch support for plantar fasciitis, designed for running shoes, shoe inserts to help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, orthotic shoe insoles with standard arch support for runners and athletes
Image breakdown by layer of the PULSE Performance Neutral Arch Supporting shoe inserts for runners, semi-rigid support shell is firm but flexible for increased comfort and stability, top fabric reduces heat, friction, and sweat, neutral arch support and heel cradle to provide heel stability, EVA foam base and foam top layer provide dual layer cushioning, insoles for running shoes, insoles for athletic shoes, orthotic insoles for plantar fasciitis, relieve heel pain, shoe inserts for sore, achy feet

PowerStep PULSE Performance Insoles | Running Shoe Pain Relief Orthotic

$54.95

Pinnacle Maxx Support Insoles

Our Pinnacle Maxx Support insoles for casual shoes and PULSE® Maxx insoles for running shoes help relieve and prevent pain from overpronation that may cause Achilles tendonitis. An angled heel post keeps the heel from rolling inward for improved stability and alignment while relieving strain on the tendons.

Bottom view of shoe inserts for Pinnacle Maxx Support Arch Support Orthotic Shoe Insoles with black EVA base, top view of shoe insoles with blue polyester top fabric, image of Pinnacle Maxx Arch Support Insoles packaging, profile view of Pinnacle Maxx Arch Support Orthotic Insoles with firm neutral arch support for flat feet features posted heel, relief of plantar fasciitis, overpronation, foot, arch and heel pain, sore aching feet, standard arch support for overpronation, insoles for flat feet
Bottom view of shoe inserts for Pinnacle Maxx Support Arch Support Orthotic Shoe Insoles with black EVA base, top view of shoe insoles with blue polyester top fabric, image of Pinnacle Maxx Arch Support Insoles packaging, profile view of Pinnacle Maxx Arch Support Orthotic Insoles with firm neutral arch support for flat feet features posted heel, relief of plantar fasciitis, overpronation, foot, arch and heel pain, sore aching feet, standard arch support for overpronation, insoles for flat feet
PowerStep is the #1 podiatrist recommended brand of orthotics. 90% of PowerStep® users experienced less foot, knee or back pain within 2 weeks. *Based on PowerStep customer survey conducted August 2021.
Woman sitting on stairs, placing PowerStep Pinnacle Maxx Support insoles into tan tennis shoe.
Slightly posted heel arch support: Slightly-angled heel post for greater support and correction. Made in the USA with globally sourced materials.
Relieves & Prevents Pain: Relief of overpronation, plantar fasciitis, ankle and knee pain, foot, arch, and heel pain. PowerStep is proven clinically effective in improving foot function. Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Chart with PowerStep Pinnacle Maxx Support dimensions by size. 12 US shoe sizes. Refer to insole diagram indicating measurement locations for data points 1-4. Measurements for data points 5-7 will remain the same across all insole sizes within this family.
Floating Pinnacle Maxx Support Arch Support Insoles, arch support shoe inserts for women, arch support shoe inserts for men, unisex shoe inserts, insoles for flat feet, insoles for overpronation, neutral arch support for plantar fasciitis, arch support to correct malalignment from overpronation
Top view of Pinnacle Maxx Support Arch Support Shoe insoles with blue polyester top fabric, flat foot shoe insoles, womens shoes, mens shoes, these shoes inserts help relieve and prevent pain from conditions caused by foot malalignment, relief from overpronation, relief from plantar fasciitis pain, flat feet relief, orthotic shoe inserts for flat feet, arch supporting orthotic insoles, plantar fasciitis orthotics, orthotic insoles for neutral arch support
View of Pinnacle Maxx Support orthotic arch support shoe inserts from heel to toe, relieves foot, arch, and heel pain, and sore, aching feet, shoe insoles for walking, womens orthotic shoe inserts, mens orthotic shoe inserts, Neutral arch support with posted heel helps to correct overpronation and prevent plantar fasciitis, insoles for shoes, insoles for flat feet, neutral arch support shoe orthotics
Profile view of Pinnacle Maxx Support arch supporting shoe insoles with firm arch support for overpronation, arch support for plantar fasciitis, posted heel helps prevent feet from rolling inward, designed for walking and running shoes, shoe inserts to help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, orthotic shoe insoles with neutral arch support, insoles for people with flat feet
Image breakdown by layer of the Pinnacle Maxx Support Arch Supporting shoe inserts for flat feet and neutral arches, firm support shell is a firm, neutral arch support for increased support and stability, top fabric reduces heat, friction, and sweat, EVA foam base and foam top layer provide dual layer cushioning, angled heel post increases stability and prevent heel from rolling inward, insoles for womens shoes, insoles for mens shoes, orthotic insoles for plantar fasciitis

PowerStep Maxx Insoles | Corrective Orthotic Insoles for Overpronation, Max Stability

$52.95
$0.00

Dorsal Night Splint

The PowerStep® Dorsal Night Splint has a comfortable, non-bulky fit with soft, breathable materials and adjustable straps. This Achilles tendonitis brace is worn while you sleep to hold the foot in place with your toes pointed up, maintaining flexibility in your calves with less pull on the heel and tendon.

PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint for men and women, stretches the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and pain, less bulky than traditional night splints, relief of pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis
PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint for men and women, stretches the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and pain, less bulky than traditional night splints, relief of pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis
PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint for men and women, stretches the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and pain, less bulky than traditional night splints, relief of pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis, silicone beading on bottom for non-slip ambulation, opening at heel prevent migration during sleep
PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint for men and women, stretches the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and pain, less bulky than traditional night splints, relief of pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis, Plantar fasciitis (mild to severe or chronic), Achilles tendonitis, heel and arch pain, calf muscle cramps, muscle tightening, and runners’ cramps, adjustable flexion strap for adjustable closures and controlled stretch
PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint for men and women, stretches the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and pain, less bulky than traditional night splints, relief of pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis, opening at heel prevent migration during sleep, Plantar fasciitis (mild to severe or chronic), Achilles tendonitis, heel and arch pain, calf muscle cramps, muscle tightening, and runners’ cramps, adjustable flexion strap for adjustable closures and controlled stretch
PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint for men and women, stretches the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and pain, less bulky than traditional night splints, relief of pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis, opening at heel prevent migration during sleep, Plantar fasciitis (mild to severe or chronic), Achilles tendonitis, heel and arch pain, calf muscle cramps, muscle tightening, and runners’ cramps, adjustable flexion strap for adjustable closures and controlled stretch

PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint | Plantar Fasciitis & Achilles Tendonitis Pain Relief

$56.95

Dynamic Ankle Support Sock

By providing compression to the Achilles tendon and other surrounding vulnerable tissues, the Dynamic Ankle Support Sock, or DASS, can help prevent reinjury and improve stability during physical activity. The ankle support brace can be worn daily and fits in most shoes, encouraging healthy, pain-free movement.

PowerStep Dynamic Ankle Support Sock profile view and box, supports like a brace and wears like a sock
PowerStep Dynamic Ankle Support Sock profile view and box, supports like a brace and wears like a sock
PowerStep DASS: Easy steps for proper wear video.
Woman playing tennis while wearing dynamic ankle support sock, supports like a brace and wears like a sock, machine washable, provides ligament protection, targeted compression, healthy positioning, sleek profile fits most shoes
PowerStep DASS treats & relieves: Ankle sprains (inversion & eversion), Ankle strains, Chronic ankle instability, Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), Achilles tendonitis, Achilles tear, Achilles surgery recovery, Hypermobility (double-jointed), Ankle replacement, Plantar fasciitis*. *For maximum relief from plantar fasciitis, pair with PowerStep orthotic insoles.
Dynamic Ankle Support Sock size guide; compression sock base provides targeted compression and support, ankle stability straps lock in correct positioning to allow healthy movement, ankle support cage provides support and ligament protection
Dynamic Ankle Support Sock wear guide instructions
Dynamic ankle support sock reviews, wear trial conducted in March 2023, consumer approved
PowerStep Dynamic Ankle Support Sock front view, offers targeted compression and enhanced support, alignment and stability
Back view of Dynamic Ankle Support Sock, ankle stability strap wraps across the ankle to provide stability control
Profile view of PowerStep Support Sock, strap wraps around ankle for stability and custom tension, sleek profile for comfortable fit in most shoes
Profile view of PowerStep Support Sock, strap wraps around ankle for stability and custom tension
PowerStep DASS sizing chart, sizes small through x-large
PowerStep DASS sizing step by step instructions on how to find your ideal size and fit

PowerStep Dynamic Ankle Support Sock | Compression Sock & Ankle Support Brace for Ankle Pain and Injuries

$35.00

Achilles Tendon Strap

The PowerStep® Achilles Tendon Strap is an adjustable strap that provides comfortable compression to support and stabilize the Achilles tendon. Soft, quality materials allow for long-term wear during activity and rest while targeted compression alleviates discomfort, tenderness, and pain from Achilles tendonitis.

PowerStep Achilles Tendon Strap for Achilles Tendonitis; Tender, swollen Achilles
PowerStep Achilles Tendon Strap for Achilles Tendonitis; Tender, swollen Achilles
PowerStep Achilles Tendon Strap for Achilles Tendonitis; Tender, swollen Achilles, cushioned gel pad allows for targeted relief, strap allows adjustable compression, can we worn on left or right ankle
PowerStep Achilles Tendon Strap packaging, eases achilles tendonitis and associated discomfort, offers support and stability to the achilles tendon, cushioning gel pad for targeted relief, adjustable for controlled compression

PowerStep Achilles Tendon Strap | Compression to Support & Stabilize Achilles Tendon

$15.00
$27.25
Man holding up a tan slip-on flat shoe to place PowerStep Adjustable Heel Lift inside
Woman sitting in bedroom on carpeted floor, placing Pinnacle insoles into white running shoes
Woman with gym in background, holding up a pair of silver running shoes and placing PowerStep PULSE insoles inside
Woman sitting on front porch stairs, placing PowerStep Pinnacle Maxx Support insoles into pink sneakers
Woman sitting in bed next to long-haired orange and white chihuahua, wearing the PowerStep Dorsal Night Splint
Man playing basketball in basketball court near palm trees and green foliage while wearing PowerStep Dynamic Ankle Support Sock

FAQs About Achilles Tendinitis

Do you have questions about treating Achilles tendon pain or how orthotics like PowerStep can help heal and prevent painful foot and ankle conditions? These frequently asked questions provide more information.

REFERENCES

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