We treat Achilles tendinopathy at our Roxboro clinic in the West Island. Your physiotherapist works out which type you have, then builds a progressive loading program to get the tendon back to running, jumping, and full training. Book directly, no referral needed.
Symptoms
Achilles tendinopathy usually introduces itself first thing in the morning: the first steps out of bed are stiff and sore, the tendon loosens as you warm up, then complains again once you stop.
- Pain and stiffness at the back of the heel or a few centimetres above it
- Worst with the first steps of the day, or after sitting a while
- A tender, sometimes thickened spot on the tendon
- Pain that builds during or after running, jumping, or hill work
Two common types
- Midportion tendinopathy. Pain 2 to 6 cm above where the tendon meets the heel. The more common of the two.
- Insertional tendinopathy. Pain right where the tendon attaches to the heel bone, often worse with uphill running and with stretching the tendon under load.
The distinction matters, because it changes how we load the tendon.
Causes
Achilles tendinopathy is an overload problem: the tendon is asked to do more than it has adapted to handle. Common triggers:
- A jump in training volume, pace, or hills
- New activity started without a gradual build-up
- A change in footwear or running surface
- Calf weakness or limited ankle mobility shifting load onto the tendon
How we treat it
The evidence is clear that tendons respond to progressive loading, not rest. We:
- Confirm it’s the tendon, and screen for the things that can mimic it.
- Work out which type it is, midportion or insertional, since that guides the exercises.
- Build a calf and tendon loading program dosed to be challenging but tolerable.
- Adjust your training so the tendon keeps moving without repeated flare-ups.
- Progress the load over weeks toward your full activity or sport.
Manual therapy and dry needling can ease symptoms along the way, but the loading program is what drives the recovery.
What to expect
Tendons are slow to adapt. Real recovery is measured in months, not weeks, even though the day-to-day pain often settles earlier. Knowing that up front makes the plan easier to commit to, and committing to it is most of the battle.
Services that treat this
Frequently asked
- How long does Achilles tendinopathy take to heal?
- Tendons adapt slowly. Most cases improve meaningfully over three to six months of consistent loading, though the day-to-day pain often eases sooner. Your physiotherapist will set realistic milestones after the first assessment.
- Should I rest it or keep training?
- Complete rest usually backfires, because the tendon needs load to adapt. The goal is the right dose, not zero. We help you find a level you can train at without flaring it, then build from there.
- Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist for Achilles Tendinopathy?
- No. In Quebec you can book physiotherapy directly, without a doctor’s referral. Some insurance plans require one for reimbursement, so check with your insurer.
- How soon can I book an assessment?
- Call the clinic and we will book your assessment, usually with the physiotherapist and time you prefer. You can also book online any time.
- What languages do you offer care in?
- Our team treats in French, English, Arabic, and Cantonese.