How can I take care of myself if I have Achilles tendinitis?

Caring for a sore Achilles tendon can feel confusing when you have never dealt with it. This page keeps it simple.

Patience and the provider's plan

Follow your provider's instructions and give it time. Cleveland Clinic says: "Achilles tendinitis can be frustratingly slow to heal. It can take time for your symptoms to disappear completely. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions so you don’t reinjure the tendon and worsen the symptoms." Self-care here is mostly about patience and following the plan.

Learning the basics at no cost

Good self-care starts with knowing what you are dealing with. Cleveland Clinic's Achilles tendinitis page and OrthoInfo's Achilles tendinitis page are free and easy to follow. For the bigger picture, the tendinopathy explainer shows where this problem fits.

What to stop doing and what to watch for

The source warns about reinjury, so avoid rushing back to full activity because the pain feels better one day. Watch for any sudden change. If something feels very different, read about Achilles tendon rupture and contact a provider promptly.

When to book a visit

If you do not yet have a plan, or you are unsure how to follow it, book a visit. Readers in Woodland Park and nearby towns can ask a local provider to walk through each step in plain language.

Before you close this page

Slow healing tests patience more than skill. Keep to the plan you are given, keep a simple log, and ask questions early.