
What is Achilles Tendonitis? How is it Treated in Singapore?
Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury causing pain and swelling in the Achilles tendon, the body’s largest tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is essential for running, jumping, and standing on your tiptoes. Athletes frequently experience this condition due to repetitive strain, but it can also arise from regular wear and tear over time.
The condition is categorised into two types: non-insertional, affecting the midsection of the tendon, and insertional, impacting the lower part where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. Both types result from overuse, leading to the tendon’s inflammation and degeneration.
Fortunately, Achilles tendonitis is less severe than an Achilles tendon tear, and there are several ways to manage it:
Home Remedies:
- Rest
- Ice packs to reduce swelling
- Heat pads to relax muscles and improve blood flow
- Over-the-counter pain medication (NSAIDs)
- Light stretching exercises
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Specialist-recommended orthotic devices (shoe inserts, wedges)
- Physical therapy (eccentric Achilles stretching and strengthening)
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- Arthroscopic debridement (removing damaged tissue and bone spurs)
Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis
When you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you could have Achilles tendonitis and may require specialist treatment from an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore:
- Pain and stiffness in your Achilles tendon in the morning
- Pain in the Achilles tendon when it is moved or touched
- Pain in your heel and the length of the tendon when running or walking
- Difficulty standing on one toe
- Warmth and inflammation in the heel or along the tendon
- Reduced range of motion that manifests as difficulty in bending an ankle or pointing a foot
Noticeable bump or a feeling of thickness on the Achilles tendon
Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis stems from repetitive stress on the tendon, often due to a sudden increase in physical activity without adequate conditioning. Tight calf muscles can impose additional strain on the tendon at its heel bone insertion point. Haglund’s deformity, an enlargement of the heel bone, may also irritate and inflame the tendon. If you’re encountering these risk factors or experiencing symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, seeking medical assistance promptly in Singapore is advised to receive timely specialist treatment and avert more serious injuries.
Diagnosing Achilles Tendonitis: When To See A Doctor
Diagnosing Achilles tendonitis begins with a detailed review of your medical history and a physical examination. An orthopaedic specialist will inquire about your athletic activities, symptoms, and any past treatments. During the physical exam, the specialist may observe your walk to assess gait abnormalities and palpate the tendon for swelling or irregularities. Your calf muscles, which connect to the Achilles tendon, will also be evaluated.
For a more in-depth analysis, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may be performed. These tests provide a clear image of the Achilles tendon structure and help to exclude other potential causes of pain, such as bone fractures.
Immediate Self-Care Treatments for Achilles Tendonitis
For those experiencing Achilles tendonitis, specialists recommend an initial approach of Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE). Also, it is crucial to pause exercise or any activities that might aggravate the condition for several days. To manage pain and swelling, apply an ice pack to the affected area. Wraps or compressive elastic bandages can also be effective in reducing swelling. Moreover, elevating the foot above heart level, particularly while sleeping, can aid in decreasing inflammation. Following these steps can offer significant relief and prevent further strain on the Achilles tendon.
Achilles Tendonitis Treatment
The treatment for Achilles tendonitis varies according to the severity of the tendon condition. The orthopaedic specialist may suggest conservative treatments or other therapies to facilitate healing. Here’s a breakdown:
Physical Therapy
Tailored exercise programmes will be provided by a specialist to strengthen the Achilles tendon and its supporting structures. Special devices such as orthotics, which correct foot alignment, or walking boots, which lessen tendon load, may be recommended, especially for more serious injuries.
Extracorporeal Magnetic Transduction Therapy (EMTT)
For persistent pain and inflammation unresponsive to conservative measures, EMTT offers a non-invasive solution using magnetic pulses. An Achilles tendonitis specialist may recommend sessions that last about 5-10 minutes over 6-8 appointments, depending on the condition’s severity.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
Another non-surgical option, ESWT, applies shock waves to the injured tissue to alleviate pain and encourage healing, usually in under 30 minutes per treatment. It’s an option that Achilles tendonitis specialists suggest when traditional methods haven’t provided relief.
Surgical Repair
Surgery is considered by specialists when non-surgical approaches fail to improve the condition, particularly for severe cases involving tears in the Achilles tendon and muscle.
How to Prevent Achilles Tendonitis
Preventing Achilles tendonitis involves understanding your body’s limits and taking these proactive steps to protect your tendons:
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden increases in exercise intensity, and gradually increase your workout duration and intensity to allow your tendons to adapt.
- Warm-up and Cool-down: Always warm up with dynamic stretches before a workout and cool down with gentle stretches afterwards to enhance flexibility and blood flow.
- Proper Footwear: An orthopaedic specialist may recommend wearing supportive shoes with enough cushioning for your arches and heels. Also, replace worn-out shoes regularly to maintain support.
- Strengthen and Stretch: Strengthen your calf muscles with exercises like heel raises and toe curls. You can also improve ankle flexibility with regular stretching.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to pain signals and rest when needed. Additionally, don’t push yourself beyond your limits, especially when starting a new activity.
- Vary Your Workouts: Alternate high-impact sports with lower-impact options to reduce repetitive stress on your Achilles tendon.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the strain on your joints and tendons, including the Achilles tendon.
Recovery Period for Achilles Tendonitis
The recovery time for Achilles tendonitis varies, often depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach used by the specialist. For non-surgical treatment, patients may start to see improvement within a few weeks. However, complete recovery could take several months, especially if the tendonitis is more severe.
Patients undergoing surgery generally face a longer recovery period, and post-operative healing can range from 10 months to over a year. During the recovery process, you can generally expect the following:
Immediately After Surgery (Week 0-2):
- Expect pain, swelling, and bruising around the surgical site.
- You’ll likely wear a cast or splint to immobilise your foot.
- Keep your foot elevated to reduce swelling.
- Mobility will be limited, and you might need crutches.
First Few Weeks After Surgery (Week 2-6):
- Gradually transition to a walking boot.
- Physical therapy may begin with gentle range-of-motion exercises.
- Continue using crutches or a walking aid.
- Avoid weight-bearing activities.
First Few Months After Surgery (Week 6-12):
- Gradually increase weight-bearing as tolerated.
- Progress to more advanced physical therapy, including strengthening and flexibility exercises.
- Transition from the walking boot to supportive footwear.
Several Months After Surgery (3-6 months):
- Continue physical therapy to regain full strength and flexibility.
- Gradually return to normal activities and low-impact sports.
- Wear supportive footwear and use orthotics if needed.
6 Months and Onwards After Surgery:
- You may be able to return to high-impact activities, depending on your progress and your surgeon’s advice.
- Continue strengthening and flexibility exercises to maintain tendon health and prevent re-injury.
Am I a Candidate for Achilles Tendonitis Treatment?
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, stiffness, or swelling in your Achilles tendon, you might be a candidate for Achilles tendonitis treatment. Also, note that individuals who are particularly susceptible to this condition include athletes, people with flat feet, older adults, and those who recently increased their activity levels.
If you think you might have Achilles tendonitis, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our orthopaedic specialists at Mount Alvernia Hospital or Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital. Aside from diagnosing your condition, we can recommend the most appropriate treatment plan to help you regain your mobility.

Dr. Gowreeson Thevendran
Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery Specialist in Singapore with 15+ Years Experience
Dr. Gowreeson Thevendran is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specialising in minimally invasive treatments for ankle injuries, including sprains. He also focuses on the importance of accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment to achieve optimal recovery and prevent long-term complications. With his training from the UK to Canada, he is experienced in both the operating room and global orthopaedic education.
Frequently Asked Questions about Achilles Tendonitis Treatment in Singapore
Achilles tendonitis can affect people of all ages and genders. According to specialists, some factors may make you more susceptible, and these include age, sex, weight, fitness level and side effects of other medical treatments:
- Achilles tendonitis is most prevalent among people in their 30s – 40s
- Males are up to 5 times more susceptible to Achilles tendonitis than females
- People who participate in recreational or professional sports are at higher risk due to the rigorous use of the Achilles tendon in sporting activities
- People who have previously received some form of steroid injection in the foot, like the ankle joint, may experience weakened Achilles tendons
- Obesity also puts excess weight on the Achilles tendons
Neglecting treatment for Achilles tendonitis can lead to severe complications. Without appropriate care, the condition may progress to tendon degeneration, where the tendon loses its normal anatomical structure. This deterioration can escalate to partial or complete tendon tears. In extreme cases, untreated Achilles tendonitis might result in a total rupture of the tendon. To avoid these serious outcomes, it is imperative to seek prompt evaluation and treatment from an orthopaedic specialist whenever experiencing symptoms.
It is possible to go back to sports or any physical activity after treatment for Achilles tendonitis. Your orthopaedic specialist in Singapore may recommend that you undergo physical therapy to help strengthen your calf muscles and improve your flexibility prior to returning to your regular activity. That way, you can improve healing and avoid re-injury in the future.
Walking is generally safe for Achilles tendonitis, but it depends on the severity of your condition. So, It’s important to listen to your body and avoid activities that increase pain. And even if you can walk with minimal discomfort, avoid doing so on steep inclines to prevent your tendon from overstretching. Also, wear supportive shoes and consider heel lifts or orthotics. However, if the pain is severe, your orthopaedic specialist may recommend a walking boot or splint.
OrthofootMD is associated with various health insurance plans and accepts Medisave for treatment costs in Singapore. Also, coverage for Achilles tendonitis treatments can vary among different insurance policies. To determine if your specific plan covers our specialist services, we encourage you to speak with our staff. They can assist in verifying your eligibility and provide detailed information about the extent of coverage offered by your insurance and Medisave.
Yes, an orthopaedic doctor specialises in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, including Achilles tendonitis. These specialists can offer a range of treatments, from conservative options like physical therapy to minimally invasive procedures and surgery.
Yes, Achilles tendonitis can fully heal, but it requires time and proper management. However, recovery time varies depending on the severity and individual factors. With appropriate treatment recommended by a specialist and a gradual return to activity, most people can regain full function and return to their desired activities.
Like knee replacements and metatarsalgia surgery in Singapore, Achilles tendonitis surgery has potential risks and complications. These may include infection at the surgical site, bleeding, nerve damage, and reactions to anaesthesia. Post-operative risks include the possibility of blood clots, prolonged swelling, and difficulty regaining full strength and mobility in the affected area. In some cases, an orthopaedic specialist may recommend additional surgery if the initial procedure doesn’t yield the expected results or if complications arise.
It’s crucial to discuss these potential risks thoroughly with your surgeon to make an informed decision about the procedure. Following post-operative care instructions carefully and attending all follow-up appointments are vital steps in minimising these risks and ensuring a successful recovery.
Clinic Location
OrthofootMD@Novena
- Mount Elizabeth Novena
38 Irrawaddy Road #05-42 Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre Singapore 329563 - +65 6352 0529
- gowreeson@healthwaymedical.com
OrthofootMD@Mount Alvernia Hospital
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(Mount Alvernia Hospital)
820 Thomson Road #01-01/02 Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A Singapore 574623 - +65 6356 0588
- gowreeson@healthwaymedical.com
Dr. Gowreeson Thevendran is currently an orthopaedic surgeon with Island Orthopaedic, a one-stop care centre for orthopaedic health under Healthway Medical Group. He specialises in treating lower limb orthopaedic conditions, as well as trauma and fracture surgery of both the upper and lower limbs. Prior to establishing his private practice, Dr Gowreeson was Chief of Foot & Ankle Surgery at the Department of Orthopaedics at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH). Today, he continues to serve the Orthopaedic Department at TTSH as a visiting consultant.
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