Achilles’ tendon pain when running

[Margaret2311]

I completed my 5k graduation about 6weeks who and have been running 3 x week since this week I have developed pain in my left Achilles’ tendon. Should I still run ? Any ideas how to address the problem gutted if not able to run as worked so hard. Thanks

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

If it hurts... then get it checked out That way you will have a starting point to work from

[MarkyD Graduate]

I'm speaking from experience. It's your achilles tendon: you'll be ready to run again about 4 months after seeing a physiotherapist: it is not going to get better just by simply resting it. Don't run on it, even if it doesn't hurt when you're running. Mot likely scenario is achilles tendonosis, which is a modest tear on the achilles. It hasn't healed properly, and now doesn't slide properly in the tunnel that it is supposed to run in. First thing in the morning, or when you get up from sitting for a period of time, it is stiff and hurts. What is happening is the tendon has to slide through the tunnel and because it no longer fits, it hurts. After 5 minutes of movement, it is all OK again because the tendon has stretched out a little and got a smaller diameter. Brufen gels etc don't really make any difference.

If that sounds like you, then google "eccentric heel drops". And engage 100% patience. And spend the £50 that you could spend on new trainers on a physio appointment. It'll be like a 3 month gait analysis.

[Margaret2311 in reply to MarkyD]

Thank you. I will arrange to see a physio asap and have already seen and done the eccentric heel drops. I ruptured my Achilles’ tendon on the right foot 5 years ago and had to have surgery to repair tear it’s funny I always thought that would be the one to hurt !

[mrrun Graduate]

Achilles is notorious for not going away in untreated. My physio gave me exercises which helped after a while. I wouldn't run before someone checks it out, you don't know the cause of pain and extent of damage. I

[Margaret2311 in reply to mrrun]

Thank you will see a physio