Pain and stiffness along the back of your heel could be a sign of damage to your Achilles tendon. This is known as Achilles tendinopathy.
The pain can often be relieved with rest, ice packs and painkillers at home, although it may take several months to resolve completely.
If you experience sudden and severe pain in your heel, which may have been accompanied by a “popping” or “snapping” sound, you may have ruptured (torn) your Achilles tendon.
You should seek medical advice as soon as possible if you think you have ruptured your Achilles tendon. Often this will be treated with immobilisation (wearing a plaster cast or plastic boot) for several weeks. Surgery may sometimes be required to repair the tear.
Read more about treating tendon injuries.
You can self-refer into community physiotherapy services. Simply call 0207 871 0545 to make an appointment. Your initial contact with one of our chartered physiotherapists may be over the phone, where you will either be given advice on appropriate treatment, or a face-to-face consultation will be arranged.
Should you wish to speak to your GP first, simply make an appointment with your local practice. If your GP refers you, one of our patient care advisers will contact you within 48 hours to arrange an appointment.
Photographs of Camden by Joe Hearsey
Camden MSK logo by Eloise Jones