Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis
If you feel an ache at the back of your leg or just above your heel, especially after you’ve been active, you may have Achilles tendonitis. Your Achilles tendon runs down the rear of your leg to connect your calf muscles to your heel bone.
Repetitive stress can cause irritation and swelling, which leads to aches and pains. This common injury is usually caused by overuse and is a regular foe for runners and basketball players. Fortunately it responds well to at-home treatments, and wearing supportive shoes for Achilles tendonitis can help you heal.
Achilles was known for having a vulnerable heel, but he’s not the only one with good reasons to protect this crucial connection! The Achilles tendon attaches your calf muscles to the back of your heel, and it gets put to work each time you walk, run or jump. Wear and tear is natural, especially as we age, and overdoing it physically can cause swelling and irritation. This swelling and irritation (called tendonitis) leads to aches and pains just above the heel.
It is rare for a single injury or incident to cause Achilles tendonitis. This kind of heel pain usually shows up after repeated stress and overuse. This makes it a regular issue for runners, or people who jump a lot—like basketball and tennis players. And it’s easier to overdo it when you are sedentary most of the time with bursts of activity, like “weekend warriors” who are active only a few days out of the week.
Achilles tendon pain is a common condition that can cause discomfort and limit mobility in the affected area. There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing Achilles tendon pain. Below are some of the most common causes and risk factors:
- OveruseAchilles tendon pain is often caused by overuse, which can lead to repetitive stress on the tendon.Overuse
- TraumaA sudden injury, such as a fall or direct blow to the tendon, can also cause Achilles tendon pain.Trauma
- Poor footwearWearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or are worn out can put additional stress on the Achilles tendon.Poor footwear
- AgeAs you age, the Achilles tendon can become weaker and more susceptible to injury.Age
- GenderMen are more likely than women to develop Achilles tendon pain.Gender
- Sports participationSports that involve running and jumping, such as basketball, tennis, and soccer, can increase your risk of developing Achilles tendon pain.Sports participation
- Poor flexibilityTight calf muscles and limited ankle mobility can put additional stress on the Achilles tendon.Poor flexibility
- Chronic medical conditionsCertain medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can increase your risk of developing Achilles tendon pain.Chronic medical conditions
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Achilles tendon pain can be a frustrating and limiting condition that can cause discomfort in the affected area. There are several symptoms associated with Achilles tendon pain that can range from mild to severe. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Pain: The most common symptom of Achilles tendon pain is pain in the back of the leg, near the heel or calf. The pain can be a dull ache or a sharp, shooting pain.
- Swelling: Swelling around the Achilles tendon is a common symptom of Achilles tendon pain. The swelling can be mild to severe and can make it difficult to move the affected area.
- Stiffness: Stiffness in the Achilles tendon is another common symptom of Achilles tendon pain. This can make it difficult to move the foot or ankle, especially in the morning or after a period of rest.
- Tenderness: Tenderness in the Achilles tendon is a common symptom of Achilles tendon pain. The affected area may be tender to the touch and may feel warm or inflamed.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to rest the affected area and seek proper medical attention if the pain persists or worsens. Taking steps to reduce your risk of developing Achilles tendon pain, such as wearing proper footwear and stretching regularly, can help prevent future injuries.
Facts and Stats
- Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that affects athletes and non-athletes alike. It is estimated that approximately 6 percent of the general population will experience Achilles tendonitis at some point in their lives. (Source: National Library of Medicine | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5956523/)
- While the surge in rupture rates is partially attributed to increased sports participation among middle-aged individuals, it is noteworthy that men account for approximately 84% of all Achilles tendon ruptures, despite similar ages and sport participation times between genders. (Source: National Library of Medicine | https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5045781/)
- Overuse and improper training techniques are common causes of Achilles tendonitis. Engaging in activities with sudden increases in intensity, frequency, or duration without proper conditioning or rest can strain the Achilles tendon and lead to inflammation and pain. (Source: Mayo Clinic | https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369020)
In our recent study of foot pain across America, we found that a total of 11% of our survey respondents (out of 6,030) reported having tendonitis. Tendonitis is most common in jumping athletes, runners, and those who ramp up their activity level too quickly.
Achilles tendon pain can be treated with a combination of methods to speed up the recovery process. Here are some treatment options to consider:
- RICE methodRest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Rest your foot, apply ice to the affected area, wrap with compression, and elevate your foot to reduce swelling and inflammation.RICE method
- Modify physical activitiesAvoid high-impact activities and switch to low-impact options such as swimming or cycling to give your tendon time to heal.Modify physical activities
- Stretching and exercisesRegular stretches and exercises can help prevent future injuries and strengthen the tendon and the muscles around it. Runner’s stretches, calf raises, and eccentric heel drops are a few examples of exercises that can be helpful.Stretching and exercises
- Physical therapyA physical therapist can guide you through stretches and exercises tailored to your specific needs and provide other treatments such as ultrasound therapy.Physical therapy
- MedicationsOver-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can reduce pain and inflammation.Medications
- SurgeryIn severe cases where other treatments have failed, surgery may be required to repair or remove damaged tissue.Surgery
- Which shoes are best for Achilles tendonitis?
Treating Achilles tendonitis is all about giving your damaged tendon the space and rest it needs to recover. You may not be able to stay off your feet entirely, so what do you do when you have to be on your feet for work or to finish your to-do list?
Shoes with plenty of cushion at the heel and support for the full length of the foot can reduce your risk of injury, and protecting your body from impact helps it heal more quickly if you’re already hurt. You also want to reduce strain on the tendon, so avoid high heels!
- Can shoes help Achilles tendonitis?
Yes, shoes can help alleviate the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis. Choosing the right shoes with proper support and cushioning can provide relief and promote healing for individuals suffering from this condition.
Shoes designed specifically for Achilles tendonitis often feature features such as heel cushion, arch support, and shock absorption, which help reduce strain on the Achilles tendon and provide comfort during movement. These shoes provide a supportive environment for the foot, minimizing excessive stretching and allowing the tendon to heal.
- Why do runners get Achilles tendonitis?
If you’re a runner or know people who are, you’ve probably heard of Achilles tendonitis. What makes this condition so common for those who pound the pavement? Well, it’s just that: pounding the pavement. Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury, and high impact activities like running put intense stress and pressure on your Achilles tendon. This leads to inflammation and irritation that causes pain.
You are more likely to suffer from Achilles tendonitis if you suddenly increase how often or how far you are running. Gradually work up to any new fitness routine, and make sure to wear supportive shoes to protect your body and help it recover!
- Can I use custom orthotics with KURU shoes?
Due to the anatomical shape of the KURUSOLE, custom orthotics with a rounded heel fit best inside our shoes.
If the underside of the custom orthotic (the part that sits on the footbed) is squared off, then it may not fit into our deep heel cup—which is rounded like your foot.
That said, many of our customers tell us the KURUSOLE technology offers better support and stability than they expected, and they don’t need to wear their custom orthotics with KURU shoes.
- Are your shoes considered orthopedic shoes?
Even though KURU shoes were not initially intended to be orthopedic shoes, thousands of our customers say they experience relief from various foot conditions—including bunions!
While our shoes are not currently considered orthopedic by a medical standard, we have received thousands of positive reviews from customers who say their KURUs helped reduce or eliminate their pain.
- Can shoes cause Achilles tendon pain?
Yes, shoes can cause Achilles tendon pain if they do not provide proper support or if they have certain design features that can contribute to strain or irritation of the Achilles tendon. Wearing shoes with inadequate cushioning, poor arch support, or a lack of heel stability can increase the risk of developing Achilles tendon pain. Additionally, shoes that are too tight or have an improper fit can put excessive pressure on the Achilles tendon, leading to discomfort and potential injury.
It is important to choose footwear that is suitable for your foot type, provides adequate support, and promotes proper alignment to reduce the risk of Achilles tendon pain. If you experience persistent or worsening pain in the Achilles tendon, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a podiatrist for proper evaluation and treatment.
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Achilles tendonitis shoes are specially designed footwear that can help alleviate symptoms associated with Achilles tendonitis. These shoes offer targeted support and comfort to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Here’s how they can be beneficial:
- Cushioned Heel CollarAchilles tendonitis shoes feature a cushioned heel collar that provides gentle support and reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon, offering relief from pain and discomfort.Cushioned Heel Collar
- Arch SupportThese shoes are equipped with ample arch support, promoting proper foot alignment and minimizing stress on the Achilles tendon. The arch support helps distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain on the affected area.Arch Support
- Flexible yet Stable SoleAchilles tendonitis shoes have a sole that is flexible enough to allow natural foot movement but also offers stability to support the Achilles tendon. This combination provides a comfortable gait while protecting the tendon from further injury.Flexible yet Stable Sole
- Pain Management and Inflammation ReductionWearing Achilles tendonitis shoes can help manage pain associated with the condition. The shoes provide cushioning and support, reducing inflammation and discomfort, allowing individuals to engage in activities with greater ease.Pain Management and Inflammation Reduction
- Improved MobilityBy providing the necessary support and comfort, Achilles tendonitis shoes enable individuals to move more freely and comfortably. This improved mobility allows them to carry out daily activities without exacerbating their condition.Improved Mobility
At KURU, we pride ourselves on our unique approach to shoe design. We believe that shoes should be shaped to fit the natural contours of your feet, which is why we create every pair in three distinct support layers, not just an insole.
Our revolutionary ergonomic design starts with a curved footbed and adds unparalleled triple-layer support that includes shock-absorbing KURUCLOUD, heel-cupping KURUSOLE, and arch-supporting ULTIMATE INSOLES. The result? Shoes that are so comfortable you’ll stop thinking about your feet.
KURUSOLE
Patented to protect your heels, nothing feels quite like KURUSOLE. Ample cushion and supreme support are just the beginning: our …Show More
Patented to protect your heels, nothing feels quite like KURUSOLE. Ample cushion and supreme support are just the beginning: our technology works with your natural biomechanics to reduce stress on the Achilles tendon.
Nature gave you a pillow of fat beneath your heel that acts as a cushion. This fat pad can get worn down and stretched out over time, but the dynamic flexing action of KURUSOLE cups and contains this pad of fat to maximize your natural cushion and reduce heel pain.
…Show lessKURUCLOUD
We all want to feel like we’re walking on clouds, and now it’s never been easier. Simply slip into KURUCLOUD comfort and let the …Show More
We all want to feel like we’re walking on clouds, and now it’s never been easier. Simply slip into KURUCLOUD comfort and let the premium foam cushion your every step. This blend of foams delivers a bouncy stride in a lightweight package, so you can feel light on your feet—even at the end of a difficult day.
…Show lessULTIMATE INSOLE
ULTIMATE INSOLES come in every pair of KURUs, so you can skip the hassle of purchasing inserts and moving them from shoe to shoe. We use dual-density …Show More
ULTIMATE INSOLES come in every pair of KURUs, so you can skip the hassle of purchasing inserts and moving them from shoe to shoe. We use dual-density foam that offers support where you need it and cushion just where you want it. Even better, the foams adapt to the unique shape of your feet over time for a more-custom fit. The result is all-day comfort you can count on—month after month.
…Show less
KURUSOLE
Patented to protect your heels, nothing feels quite like KURUSOLE. Ample cushion and supreme support are just the beginning: our technology works with your natural biomechanics to reduce stress on the Achilles tendon.
Nature gave you a pillow of fat beneath your heel that acts as a cushion. This fat pad can get worn down and stretched out over time, but the dynamic flexing action of KURUSOLE cups and contains this pad of fat to maximize your natural cushion and reduce heel pain.
Fine, We’ll Tell You Our Secret
What makes KURU different? Every KURU shoe comes with built-in patented KURUSOLE tech—a foot health game changer.
While other shoes are flat on the inside, KURUSOLE is shaped like your foot to hug and prevent fatigue and pain.
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