Best Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis in 2023 (Tested By Podiatrist and Shoe Experts)

Achilles Tendonitis is a quite common problem in runners and even in middle-aged people. And are you one of them suffering from the unbearable pain and burning sensation of this injury? Well, you can reduce the ache and heal your Achilles Tendon by wearing special footwear.

But are you thinking about how shoes can lessen your suffering from Achilles Tendonitis? Well, yes, certain podiatrist-designed shoes can take the tension off your Achilles Tendon and prevent them from getting torn or injured. So, here, after a lot of research, analysis, testing and reviewing we have come up with the best 15 shoes for Achilles Tendonitis that you might buy to soothe your ache.

Review and test of 15 best shoes for Achilles tendonitis in 2023

Brooks Women’s Ghost 14

The Brooks Women’s Ghost 14 running shoes come with the newly 3D-Print engineered mesh upper that provides adequate flexibility along with a secure fit. It is available in a wide range of sizes, including US 5 to US 12, and is suitable for every foot type, including narrow, medium, and wide.

This footgear comes in a diverse range of color combinations like black/Grey, Peacoat/Aqua, White/grey/Hollyhock, Granite/Peacoat/peach, Oyster/Alloy/white, teaberry/Rumba, Viridian, red/Ebony/Grey, etc.

The midsole of this shoe is facilitated with DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA technologies that make it lightweight, durable, and responsive enough. This cushioned midsole has a drop of about 12mm and provides a soft underfoot, which helps in easing out your Achilles Tendonitis pain.

Besides, the rubber gum-made outsole along with forefront flex grooves give adequate gripping and traction that prevents you from falling off on slippery surfaces. The segmented crash pad, located at the rear foot, comes with integrated shock absorbers to prevent impact from hard floors from affecting your Tendon.

The high-energizing cushioning of this shoe makes it perfect for road running, cross-training, gym, and even running on uneven tracks. So, runners can use this shoe to run with minimal speed, medium speed, and even high speed, without straining their tendons and muscles.

Pros:

• The durable midsole will last for more than 400 miles.
• It has a great traction profile.
• Mesh upper facilitates adequate ventilation.
• Padded cushioning gives a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
• The removable insole allows for the orthotic footbed to heal your pain.

Cons:

• The toe box seems to be too small for a few runners.
• Limited stability.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 29 

This imported running shoe from ASICS is made of synthetic and mesh material and gives enough flex to your feet and toe, making it a perfect choice for men suffering from Achilles Tendonitis. Having a wide range of sizes from US 6 to US 16, it is even suitable for customers with extra wide feet. Additionally, the shoe comes in at least 27 variations of color combinations.

The incorporation of the DuoMax Support System in the dual-density midsole provides extra stability and support to your feet, thus saving you from any strains in your Achilles tendon. The midsole, being facilitated with FlyteFoamLyte Technology, is made of organic nanofibers to provide enough cushioning under your feet and relieve you from Achilles Tendonitis.

The FlyteFoam Propel Technology implemented in the shoe facilitates energetic foam formulation that allows you to bounce freely without feeling any heaviness in your feet. The 45-degree full-length SpevaFoam used for the shoe platform increases the comforting value of the shoe, healing your Achilles Tendonitis.

The rubber outsole gives your feet adequate traction to walk or run on any terrain. Also, this shoe comes with a heel height of 22 mm and a forefoot height of 12 mm to provide enough flexibility and stability while moving.

Pros:

• Trust Technology facilitates high stability.
• Jacquard mesh upper ensures breathability of the feet.
• EVA sock liner provides a suitable rebound.
• IGS technology enhances the foot’s natural gait.
• Enough arch support gives support to your Tendon.

Cons:

• Blister problems might appear.

New Balance Men’s 608 V7

The New Balance Men’s 608 V5 has a classy and nice appearance, which is made of 100% leather. There is a wide variety of sizes available from US 6.5 to US 18, which is perfectly suitable for any foot type. The 11 variations of color combinations and the lace-up style offer a unique look as well as a secure fit.

The imported quality shoe comes with memory-foam embedded PU inserts that give enough cushioning from all angles, relieving your pain of Achilles Tendonitis magically. Also, the dual-density collar foam present inside the shoe prevents blister formation on your ankle and protects your Achilles from getting rubbed against the shoe.

The ABZORB heel crush pad helps in resisting compression and impacts from hard surfaces through its cushioning and lends the shoe a long-lasting ability. Also, this adds up an extra feeling of softness in the midfoot area that offers additional support to your feet and also can absorb shocks.

The outsole material made of rubber gives enough flexibility. Along with it, the deep treaded grooves cover the entire feet and offer excellent traction and grip on floors, hence increasing the ease of movement.

Pros:

• ASTM F2913-11 certified shoe gives enough traction on any surface.
• Molded inserts provide extra cushioning to heal Achilles Tendonitis.
• The inner fabric keeps your feet breathable enough.
• Premium leather makes it highly durable.

Cons:

• It is a bit heavier.
• The footbed might feel uncomfortable.

ASICS Women’s Gel-Nimbus 23

This collection of women’s sneakers by ASICS is the perfect amalgamation of a stylish looks and utmost comfort. The synthetic and mesh material offers perfect breathability to your feet and avoids perspiration and irritation.

This footwear is a perfect fit for every foot and available from US size 5 to US size 13 with wide variants. Available in 22different bright shades, including Blue Coast/ Skylight, Mid Grey/ Silver, Black/ Dark Grey, Baked Pink/ White, etc. the shoe is designed with reflective materials that enhance its visibility in darkness.

The energetic foam formulation facilitated through FlyteFoam Propel Technology is efficient to provide enough bounce that protects your Achilles tendon from getting hurt. Equipped with the Plus 3 Midsole Technology, this footgear comes with an additional height of 3mm as compared to that of the standard women’s shoe models to reduce unwanted Achilles pain.

The High abrasion rubber placed in the outsole makes the shoe able to withstand any kind of rough use and has adequate traction to avoid slip and skid. Also, the flexible fabric sole allows your feet to flex and groove with ease. The shoe implements Iconic Gel Brand Technology to make your foot roll inwardly after landing outside the heel to absorb the shock from the ground.

Pros:

• Mesh upper gives a comfy stride.
• The bouncy midsole allows you to run without hurting your Achilles Tendon.
• Heel Clutching System Technology provides added support to your heels.
• The lace-up closure gives a comfortable fit.

Cons:

• It is suitable only for normal arches.
• The toe box is not much wider.

New Balance Men’s 877 V3

Made up of 100% suede and mesh material, this premium quality men’s walking shoe by New Balance is an ideal footgear for those having Achilles Tendonitis. Available from US size 7 to US size 15 with extra-wide variations, there are four different shades, namely, Grey, Silver, Grey/ Blue, and Black.

The shoe is incorporated with ABZORB Midsole Technology to absorb impact from hard floors while providing compression resistance with improved cushioning. Also, the smooth and soft padded footbed of 11mm drop helps in giving added comfort to your Achilles tendon.

The Walking Strike Path Technology of the outsole helps in stabilizing the easy movements of your feet. Besides that, the rubber sole provides extra flex and groove to your feet for smoother moves without hurting your Achilles.

The rubber outsole is quite strong to bear with regular wear and tear, and the comfort lasts all day long. The shoe is seamlessly designed to give your feet the perfect support and secure fit with the lacing-up design.

Pros:

• Premium inserts increase the comfort level of your feet.
• Enough heel support is provided.
• The shoe fabric provides enough breathability to control sweat.
• Walking Strike Path Technology enhances natural gait efficiency.
• It is suitable for all types of feet.

Cons:

• The traction profile is a bit low.
• Not much arch support.

Orthofeet Men’s High Top Boots Hunter

If you are searching for footwear with good looks that are great for healing Achilles Tendonitis at the same time, then Orthofeet Men’s High-Top Boots Hunter shoes can be the ideal choice for you. Available with size variations from US 7 to US 14 and different widths for narrow, medium, and wide feet, this shoe comes in a single color combination of black and brown.

This shoe comes with a lightweight midsole and ergonomic design to absorb impacts and shocks on your heels and Achilles, relieving pain. The finest orthotic multi-layered cushioned insole of ¼-inch offers excellent anatomical arch support and stability to soothe the pain of your heel, Achilles Tendon, and the rest of the foot.

The comfortable arch support with a non-binding, soft, fabric-made upper design fits perfectly and gives a relaxing comfort along with supreme protection to the pressure points of your feet. The soft and stretchable design with a smooth inner lining gives enough protection to your sensitive feet and takes care of it.

The cushioned Ergonomic Stride outsole provides excellent traction at the bottom to avoid any slip and skid. This shoe exclusively provides extra comfort and helps in relieving pain and foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, diabetic feet, and bunions.

Pros:

• Air pockets reduce impact and add bounce.
• Cushioning foam layers give foot pain relief.
• Added padding gives heel-to-toe support.
• It eliminates overpronation preventing further tendon ache.
• Breathable fabric allows the feet to stay sweat-free.

Cons:

• Not available for small feet.
• The price is a bit high.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Kahana 10

This men’s running shoe by ASICS is designed perfectly with synthetic material, which is durable enough to bear rough and tough use. Having a cool and sporty look, this shoe is good for narrow feet and available in various sizes like US 6 to US 15.

The rearfoot GEL Cushioning system allows the shock to be absorbed during the impact phase while giving enough comfort to the feet with compression resistance. Adequate cushioning in the inner sole helps in making the footbed feel softer under your feet, combatting your Achilles ache.

The dual-density midsole equipped with DuoMax Support System is ideal for providing enough support and stability. And the trail-specific rubber outsole provides uphill and downhill traction to have strong gripping on any surface.

The Trusstic System Technology is efficient in reducing the weight of the sole, which helps to create a comfortable environment for your ankle and toes. The shaft measurement of low-top gives sufficient arch support that works great in providing enough relief at the Achilles tendon area.

Available in 9 different vibrant color combinations, such as Black/ Classic Red/ Phantom, Directoire Blue/ Vibrant Yellow/ Black, and Sandstorm/ Black, the shoe has a perfect athlete look that can go with any sports purpose.

Pros:

• The lace-up design gives steadiness and support to the feet.
• The rubber outsole is slip-resistant and durable.
• Adequate heel measure gives perfect support to your Achilles area.
• SpEVA Midsole technology augments bounce and lessen midsole breakdown.
• It has a short break-in period.

Cons:

• Not suitable for wide feet type.

Skechers Women’s Shape Ups XF Accelerators

Specially designed for women’s feet type, this lace-up sneaker is a good choice for those who experience a problematic foot due to Achilles Tendonitis. It is available in a wide range of sizes from the US size chart of 5 to 11. The eight different variations in colors, including Black Silver, Navy Silver, White Pink, Navy/ White, etc. gives a lot of options to choose from.

This shoe is made up of 100% leather and mesh material. Hence, it provides a perfect breathable environment inside, which keeps away any irritation caused by the perspiration of the feet. The padded insole is specifically designed to give enough comfort and relief to your Achilles pain.

The super-sized contoured midsole gives proper softness and cushioning to your feet. The flexible outer sole is made of durable gum rubber that allows you to have enough flex and groove on any terrain. The traction profile offered by this outsole is excellent to avoid any kind of slip and skid.

The easy lace-up closure provides enough support and a comfortable fit for your feet. Its nice and tech-savvy design will help you in taking every step with extra easiness even if you walk and run for a long time.

Pros:

• The cushioned midsole gives extra protection to the Achilles area.
• The padded collar prevents blister formation.
• Spacious toe box to move your feet inside.
• Mesh panels in the upper facilitate breathability.

Cons:

• It doesn’t offer much bounce.
• Not so lightweight.

ASICS Men’s Court FF Tennis

The synthetic and mesh material of this shoe provides it with an ideal level of breathability to keep your feet fresh and cold inside the shoe. It is available in 7 different vibrant color combinations. Moreover, it suits all types of feet, as it is available in different size variations from US 6 to US 15.

The modernized PU-covered upper allows the shoe to fit appropriately without compromising on the support. The PGuard Toe protector provides enough protection for your toe. The FlyteFoam Midsole Technology offers bounce to your shoes & its organic super fibers help in decreasing packing out.

The forefoot and rearfoot Gel Technology give added comfort through the cushioned sole and absorbs quite a large amount of shock and impact during the toe-off stage. The AHARPLUS outer sole comes with low-top traction control, which provides extra friction against any surface.

Besides, the Twistruss technology implemented in the shoes’ outsole helps distribute body weight evenly to ensure an easy and comfortable fit. The Mono-Sock Technology Fit System works nicely to give your shoe a sock-like fit with the help of an internal elastic sleeve.

Pros:

• Midsole cushioning enhances comfort in the heel area.
• The outsole provides three times greater abrasion resistance.
• The lace-up design gives a secure fit.
• The large toe box, yet the shoe will hold your foot in place.

Cons:

• The arch support is not that strong.
• Sizes run larger.

PUMA Men’s Cell Surin 2 FM Cross-Trainer Shoe

Puma Men’s Cell Surin shoes, which are exclusively suitable for people suffering from Achilles Tendonitis, are available in a wide range of sizes, right from US 6.5 to US 14. These shoes are mostly preferable for people having wide feet type but can be worn by all. The shoe is made up of 100% synthetic/leather.

The shoes come with a synthetic sole that makes it perfect to wear before, during, and after a workout. The faux leather material comes with perforations that make the shoe breathable. Talking about the midsole, 10-Cell Cushioning Technology is implemented in the rear part, and the lightweight foam keeps the heel protected from shocks and impacts because of its absorption capability.

Also, the EcoOrtholite sock-liner keeps your foot comfortable inside the shoes, healing Achilles Tendonitis. Sufficient cushioning in the midfoot owing to TPU shank makes it wearable during heavy activities. The upper stability and footbed together keep your feet locked properly in position. The outsole is made of lightweight rubber that provides perfect traction and prevents you from falling off.

This lace-up shoe comes with the famous Puma logo on its sides and is available in several colors, such as white/black, black/silver, white/silver, red/black, black/yellow, and dark black.

Pros:

• The padded midsole provides adequate cushioning to your Achilles area.
• The rubber outsole gives a great traction profile.
• The synthetic body makes it easily cleanable.
• Adequate arch support helps in easing out your foot ache.

Cons:

• It might get damaged on running vigorously.
• Not suitable for people with narrow feet.

Orthofeet Tacoma – stretchable

One of the doctor’s most preferable athletic shoes is Orthofeet Tacoma. It is available in multiple sizes, from US size 7 to US size 14. These footwears are good for almost all type of feet – medium, wide, and extra-wide, and is designed especially for women. The shoe is made up of stretchable materials that make it suitable for healing Achilles Tendonitis.

The sole of the shoe is lightweight and incorporated with an ergonomic design and excellent cushioning. The removable insole is orthotic that offers soft pillow-like anatomical arch support to eliminate the pain. The midsole and flexible outsole also contribute to curing Achilles’ problem of the feet. A high-quality outsole takes care of the traction and provides excellent gripping on various terrains.

The superior cushioning enhances comfortability and eliminates any kind of pain on the heel, Achilles, and foot. The footbed is made up of anti-microbial fabric and foam, and the heel is induced with pain relief technology. The shoe lets your feet breathe and keeps it moist-free, thus preventing foul-smelling.

Additionally, the elastic laces, stretchable upper part, fitting spacers, and extra foam padding at the back of the shoe make it durable and can be used for a much longer period.

Pros:

• The toe box is deep and wide.
• The padded collar and tongue of the footwear give added comfort.
• Contoured footbed and anti-microbial lining give an extra layer of protection.
• Rocker bottom and rigid sole prevent skidding.

Cons:

• The bottom part is too hard and makes walking difficult at times.
• Long break-in period.

Nike Precision Iii Basketball Shoe

Nike has become a brand, on which everybody counts, especially when it is a matter of comfortability. The Nike precision Iii is available in a wide range of shoe sizes, from US size 6 to regular US size 14. The shoe material is made up of fabric and soft textiles to offer you maximum flexibility.

The rubber-made sole of the shoe makes it work great on any surface. The midsole of the sole is made up of lightweight material that provides contentment to the wearer. The outsole of the shoe is quite tough and can be roughly used outdoors. The up-to-mark flat heel size, insole, midsole, and multi-directional traction make every step count and works together perfectly for both soft and quick steps.

The mid-top shoe serves for all-purpose and offers perfect and superior quality cushioning and comfortability. And the padded collars contribute to added comfort and support. The approximate measurement of the shaft is high-top from the arch.

The footbed is soft which allows the wearer to wear the footgear for longer hours. The additional eyelets and engineered quarter panels provide a secure fit. The shoe is breathable and provides enough support to control many foot problems, including Achilles Tendonitis.

The rubber outsole and resilient foam midsole enhance the durability of the product. The lace-up shoes come in multiple appealing colors like black/white, black/metallic grey, white/black, grey/dark grey, dark grey/metallic gold-white, and multicolor black.

Pros:

• It takes little or no time to break in.
• It is suitable for all foot types.
• The mid-top design makes the shoe lightweight.
• The embedded foam cushion improves the responsivity of the shoe.

Cons:

• The shoes are a bit tight.
• The upper is weaker and not supportive enough.

Skechers Women’s Go Walk Air-16098

This pair of attractive shoes is available in a wide range of sizes, starting from US size 5 to US size 11. These good-for-all-purpose shoes are perfect for almost any foot type. The shoe is made up of soft synthetic material and incorporated with engineered mesh fabric that enhances the overall comfort of the feet.

The rubber sole of the shoe doesn’t interrupt walking or running and allows the wearer to achieve the perfect amount of flexibility. The air-cooled Goga mat insole of the shoe provides high-rebound cushioning, while the dual-density outsole enhances the stability and support of your footwear. Therefore, it makes the shoes perfect for people suffering from several foot problems, including Achilles Tendonitis. The perfect heel size of 1½-inches provides extra stability.

The shoe is lightweight and incorporated with ultra-go cushioning that makes it highly responsive. The midsole is made with an air-cushioned heel pad that gives utmost comfort and support to your feet, healing your painful Achilles tendon. The mat insoles make the shoe breathable enough and prevent it from being foul-smelling.

The footgear is quite durable and can be used for a longer time on almost all types of surfaces. The lace-up design, facilitated with elastic laces, gives the shoe a secure and comfortable fit. The available colors of this footwear are black/hot pink and charcoal/lavender.

Pros:

• Mesh upper provides enhanced ventilation to your feet.
• Cushioned foam-embedded midsole enhances comfort.
• Soft padded tongue and collar improve stability.
• It is machine-washable.

Cons:

• The fitting of the shoe is not up to the mark.
• It runs larger by size.

ASICS Women’s Gilderide Running Shoes

The ASICS Women’s Gilderide Running shoes with rearfoot Gel Technology cushioning system allow your foot to be in a comfortable position while relieving you from Achilles’ pain. For every foot type, ranging from extra-extra narrow to extra-extra wide, these shoes are available within the size chart of US 5.5 to US 12. It is available wide variety of colors, including polar shade/grey floss, white/pure gold, black/rose gold, rose petal/breeze, and ginger peach/white.

This lace-up shoe allows you to run longer while providing a comfortable fit. The Guidesole technology of this shoe improves its cushioning and reduces muscle load at a foot strike that protects you from severe pain of Achilles Tendonitis.

With FlyteFoam Midsole Technology incorporated into the shoe, you get to enjoy exceptional bounce back and responsiveness. Unlike the softer and lower-density foams, organic fiber reduces sweating. This shoe is made of multi-directional mesh material to improve stability and ventilation.

The dynamically curved outsole design and stiff forefoot increase your running efficiency. Thus, it provides a good amount of traction without putting much pressure on your ankle joint. The shoe’s center of mass is very much closer to the heel, which makes it easier to swing the foot forward and gives you a whole new running experience.

Pros:

• Gel technology ensures flexible midstance transition.
• Guidesole technology reduces ankle flexion.
• The shock-absorbent midsole absorbs impact from floored surfaces.
• Great arch support holds your posture correctly.

Cons:

• The rocker’s bottom is a bit weird.
• No extra toe room.

Clarks Men’s Portland 2

This classy imported Clarks Men’s Portland 2 shoe is made up of pure leather with a human-made lining that gives it a highly bossy impression. These foot gears are available in only four different colors, including brown leather, black leather, beige, and black. This perfect corporate shoe is available in sizes, ranging from US 7 to US 15, and has special categories for both extra-extra narrow and extra-extra wide feet type.

This lightweight lace-up shoe’s shaft measures approximately 3.5 inches from the arch, the heel measures approximately 0.5 inches, and the platform measures approximately 0.5 inches. These appropriate measures provide the shoes with perfect stability and support to combat with Achilles Tendonitis.

The soft upper layer of this shoe provides it with a comfortable and casual style while aiding ventilation to your foot. And the attractive whip-stitched detailing on the upper completes its aesthetic look. The sculpted rubber outsole offers adequate traction to avoid skids and slips while working.

Since it is designed for office purposes, it is meant to be cushiony from the inside. Thus, it aims to improve your walking speed without stressing your Achilles and provide a marvelous experience to your underfoot.

Pros:

• The padded tongue and collar offer commendable comfort.
• Good breathability keeps your foot fresh.
• The toe box is spacious enough to accompany wide feet.
• Cushioned midsole helps improved comfort.

Cons:

• Soft leather might not be durable enough.
• Non-detachable arch support.

What is Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon, commonly known as the heel cord, is the thickest and largest Tendon present in the human body. The calf muscles or gastrocnemius, and soleus muscle bind into a tissue band forming Achilles Tendon at the lower end of the calf. This Tendon connects the calcaneus or heel bone to the calf muscles and lies right behind your leg.

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

Achilles Tendonitis refers to the condition when the Achilles Tendon located at the back of your heel bone gets inflamed. Though the inflammation and pain are temporary, they can lead to degeneration of the Tendonif not treated properly. Occasionally, this injury can result in the rupture of your Achilles Tendon.

Types of Achilles Tendonitis:

There are mainly two types of Achilles Tendonitis, including:

1. Insertional Achilles Tendonitis:

This type of injury occurs at the spot where the Tendon is attached to your heel bone. It may happen at any age, even if you aren’t active.

2. Non-Insertional Achilles Tendonitis:

In this form of Achilles Tendonitis, small tears in the center of the Tendon start to break it down, causing swelling and pain. It mostly happens to active younger people.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis:

Common symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis are as follows:

• You may feel swelling and pain at the back of your heel. The situation gets even worse when you do some physical activity.
• The Tendon remains stiff and aches as soon as you get up in the morning.
• You can flex your foot to a limited range only.
• The skin of your heel feels too warm.
• The Achilles tendon thickens up.
• Bone spur.

Causes of Achilles Tendonitis:

Both common and uncommon factors cause the painful inflammation of Achilles Tendon. Some of them are given below.

1. Excessive Activity and Abnormal Injury:

On doing excessive exercise, Achilles tendon may start developing repetitive and intense strains that result in the formation of small tears and degeneration. Also, if you already have some injury or foot ailment, like flat feet, and on top of it, your Tendon and muscles get stretched for long, then it can lead to Achilles Tendonitis too. Runners, athletes, physical trainers, and also people playing sports like basketball, baseball, etc. have higher chances of suffering from this injury.

2. Arthritis:

Well, Achilles Tendonitis can be a part of generalized inflammatory arthritis or Rheumatoid arthritis and is mostly found in middle-aged and older adults. At the back of the heel bone, a bone spur may form and start irritating the Achilles tendon, leading to its inflammation.

3. Footwear:

Wearing an old, misfit, or worn-out shoe with high heels daily for a long duration might increase the risk of Achilles Tendonitis. An incorrect shoe, especially a tight one, can rub against your Achilles tendon and strain it to the point of swelling.

4. Overweight and obesity:

Being overweight puts more pressure on your foot. It may stress and stretch your Achilles tendon, massively leading to several tendon-related problems. At first, it may seem like a normal mild pain at the back of your heel, but it will gradually form painful Achilles Tendonitis over time.

Prevention and treatment of Achilles Tendonitis:

Now that you know the causes and symptoms of this foot ailment. Let’s learn how you can treat and prevent it.

1. Stretch out Your calf Muscles:

Stretching your calf muscles in the morning before and after workout sessions can decrease your chances of suffering from Achilles Tendonitis. Strong calf muscles encourage the Achilles tendon and other muscles to handle the stress better during activity and exercise. To stretch, you need to stand straight and gradually lean forward, keeping your heels on the ground.

2. Take it easy:

Always start with baby steps & add it slowly into a new routine of exercise and physical training. You have to let your body adjust gradually to the increased training.

3. Perform Different Exercises:

To avoid getting your Achilles tendon stressed, you should combine high and low-impact exercises in your daily routines such as running and swimming.

4. Treatment:

There are several treatments available for curing Achilles Tendonitis, including home remedies and surgeries. However, your treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Here are some of the most used methods for treating Achilles Tendonitis:

5. Medications:

Anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin (Bufferin) and ibuprofen (Advil) are prescribed by doctors to reduce pain and swelling in your Tendon. Always take the medicines with food and make sure to check if you have any allergies. But if you require medicines for a longer period than 7-10 days, then consult your doctor for an alternative treatment method.

6. RICE method:

RICE method consisting of rest, ice, compression, and elevation has proven to be an effective treatment if applied right after the injury. Here is how it works.

• Rest: You are required to take rest for at least 1-2 days to heal your Tendon. The Tendon will get treated better if there are no more additional strains.
• Ice: Put ice in a bag and place it above your Tendon for about 15-20 minutes. The ice generally makes the swelling and inflammation go down quickly, thereby relieving you from intense pain.
• Compression: Take a bandage or an athletic tape and wrap it around your Tendon to compress it, which results in reduced swelling of Tendons. But do not wrap or tie anything around your feet too tightly as it can increase the rate of normal blood flow.
• Elevation: Lie down and put your foot on a pillow or any other raised surface to keep them higher than your chest level. If your foot remains higher than your chest, then the blood will return to heart steadily, keeping the swelling controlled.

• Surgery:If the abovesaid treatments don’t work, then surgery is the last option you are left with to cure Achilles Tendonitis. If the condition of your Tendon gets worse, then there is a higher risk of Achilles rupture. So, in such cases, doctors usually recommend going for surgery where surgeons make incisions on the sides of your Tendon to repair it.

How do shoes help to relieve Achilles Tendonitis pain?

The inflammation and pain that might happen due to Achilles Tendonitis can be countered by using accurate, supportive shoes. Footgear with proper cushioning in the midsole and insole can help in providing coziness and will keep your leg safe from excessive strain. With an arch of firm support, the strains in the Achilles tendon can be reduced to a considerable extent.

You can either use your old worn-out shoes with new arch support or buy a new shoe to gain such added protection. A few special shoes have deep heel cups that provide great support to your heels to relieve you from pain.

The rounded heel cups have the advantage of extra arch support with a cushioned heel, which benefits in absorbing shocks and prevents strain over the muscles or on the Achilles tendon. Thus, instead of wasting bucks on shoes that will damage your legs and can cause several foot complications, including Achilles Tendonitis, it is wise to choose the right option.

What to Look for When Choosing the Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis?

The right pair of shoes can relieve your endless pain, swelling, and soreness, and keep your Achilles tendon safe. However, picking the right pair of shoes for treating Achilles Tendonitis is not easy. So, here we are going to tell you what you should consider when buying shoes for Achilles Tendonitis.

Arch support:

Arch supports are nothing but additional inserts placed in the shoes to provide your arch with proper support and comfort. People having a high or flat arch are more likely to suffer from Achilles Tendonitis.

So, proper arch support gives perfect alignment to your foot, eliminating the pain and inflammation caused by Achilles Tendonitis. It also helps in the even distribution of your body weight, so that your heel and calf muscles don’t feel the pressure and the Achilles tendon doesn’t get stretched much.

Comfort and Cushioning:

Wearing a pair of shoes with an adequate amount of cushioning in the footbed is a significant necessity for treating Achilles Tendonitis. Footwear having padded midsole as well as insole provide extra comfort and protection to your heel and ankle to prevent any injury.

Cushioned soles that come with EVA/ spEVA conformation keep your heel bone stable and helps your Achilles tendon to get less and fewer strains, even when walked unconsciously. It takes off the pressure from your Tendon and relieves you from the pain and swelling, thereby providing you with soothing comfort.

Flexibility:

When it comes to buying shoes for Achilles Tendonitis, it must provide enough flexibility in the ball area of your foot. Having a flexible sole can help in quick recovery if you get an injury in your Achilles tendon.

Always look for the footgear that has softer heel counter or doesn’t have any, instead of the ones coming with hard and rigid heel counters. It is so because the former ones offer you more flexibility around the heel areas, so the Tendon remains unharmed and pain-free. But the latter ones adversely affect not only your Achilles tendon but also muscles and other parts of your foot.

Ankle collar:

Shoes with ankle collar or ankle brace keep your ankle in proper alignment and prevent the Tendon from getting rubbed against the footwear continuously.

A padded collar is more comfortable as it can fit the heel and extend to your calf muscles. It acts as a cushioning medium for the Tendon and provides compression at pulsating intervals, which further helps in reducing the swelling of your Achilles.

Breathability:

Breathable shoes do not produce excessive sweat and sogginess while getting warmed continuously. Also, it facilitates the proper circulation of air throughout your feet, keeping it well-ventilated.

But if your foot stays full of perspiration all the time inside your shoes, then there is a high chance that your Achilles will get infected with different skin diseases, which will aggravate your pain. Moreover, your feet will feel muggy and emit bad odor, and make you feel uncomfortable.

Durability:

Like any other shoe, you would also want your footgear for Achilles Tendonitis to be durable. No one would want to invest in a product that becomes useless after a few days. So, to find whether a shoe is durable or not, check the material used in it and the build quality of its sole.

Fitting:

Last but not least, fitting is one of the most important factors you should consider when buying a pair of shoes. Excessively tight or loose shoes can cause disturbances and upsurge pain in the Achilles tendon.

FAQs:

Can flip flops cause Achilles Tendonitis?

Yes, certainly, it does. Apart from that, it can also cause heel pain and pinched nerves in the back. It lacks arch support that keeps the knees, hips, and back aligned. With flip flops, your joints have to compensate, causing serious damage to your leg due to the uneven distribution of body weight and pressure.

Can walk barefoot cause Achilles Tendonitis?

If we walk barefoot, then we create risks for both skin and biomechanical functioning. Walking barefoot on a hard surface can cause imbalance, which can increase the chances of facing many foot ailments. Walking barefoot means the distribution of a lot of pressure and weight on the foot as you lack adequate arch support, which further affects the other body parts such as the knees and back.

Are Compression Socks good for Achilles Tendonitis?

Compression socks are made with high-quality microfiber nylon with dedicated technology that can relieve your leg pain and discomfort. So, after undergoing any foot surgery, you can use these socks to walk as they diminish the risk of muscle damage.  It can prevent further leg damage and give relief from other painful symptoms.

Is it okay to walk with Achilles Tendonitis?

It is mandatory to consult with the doctor before doing so. Walking can also raise complications, and the situation might get worsen if you don’t follow accurate guidelines by your doctors. There is high chance that your Tendon might get ruptured if you put much stress on your Achilles tendon.

Does an ankle brace help Achilles Tendonitis?

Your doctor might suggest you use an ankle brace if you want to get back into your daily lifestyle. They suggest you do so because it is the ankle brace that can prevent the conditions of the Achilles tendon from being reopened. The cushion in it provides pulsating compression to the Achilles and reduces swelling and soreness. It will provide support by anatomically fitting around your heel.

Is heat or ice better for Achilles Tendonitis?

In the first three days of injury, you can apply ice in the injured area to numb the pain, making the blood vessels constrict, which will reduce further swelling of your Achilles. After three days, you can apply heat, which will enhance the blood flow in the region, increasing healing and reducing pain by relaxing muscles. Heating can be perfect for treating chronic Achilles Tendonitis.

Does wrapping your ankle help Achilles Tendonitis?

You need to properly wrap your Achilles area as it can reduce swelling and limit the movement of the Tendon. The wrap should be correctly applied so that it immobilizes the Tendon without cutting off circulation to the area. Thus, pick the right kind of wrap to apply on the injured area of your feet, while it heals.

Conclusion:

So, after studying all of these, I guess you can comprehend why it is imperative to buy only the shoes that offer adequate support and comfort to the Achilles Tendon. In our opinion, from the 15 shoes reviewed above, the Brooks Women’s Ghost 12 Running Shoes is the most flexible footgear that stands indomitable because of its segmented crash pad, integrated shock absorbers, and smooth heel-to-toe transition. The lightweight shoe comes with soft, durable cushions that can make it last for more than 400 miles. However, as per your suitability and requirement, you are free to choose any of the shoes mentioned above.