Can Wearing the Wrong Shoes Cause Achilles Tendon Pain?
That new pair of shoes may look great, but if the backs rub, the soles feel unusually flat, or the heel height differs from what you normally wear, your Achilles tendon may notice before you do. Shoes do not cause every case of Achilles pain, but certain styles and sudden footwear changes can increase strain on the tendon.
At New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, we help patients across New Jersey understand what may be contributing to Achilles tendon pain, including footwear that may be putting extra strain on the tendon.
How Can Shoes Strain the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and helps you push off the ground while walking, running, and climbing stairs. Shoes can affect how the foot and ankle move during each of those activities.
Footwear may contribute to irritation when it:
- Lacks adequate cushioning or support
- Rubs against the back of the heel
- Is worn down unevenly
- Does not fit securely around the heel
- Requires a sudden adjustment to a much flatter or higher heel
What Does Achilles Tendon Pain Feel Like?
Achilles tendon pain commonly develops at the back of the ankle or just above the heel. You may notice stiffness when taking your first steps in the morning, tenderness after exercise, swelling, or discomfort that worsens when you climb stairs or stand on your toes.
A sudden pop, severe pain, or difficulty pushing off the foot may indicate a rupture and require prompt medical attention.
Should You Replace Your Shoes?
Check the tread, cushioning, heel counter, and overall fit. Shoes that tilt to one side, feel compressed, or no longer hold the heel securely may need to be replaced. However, buying a different pair will not necessarily resolve pain that has already developed. Treatment may include temporary activity changes, stretching, physical therapy, supportive shoes, heel lifts, or other measures based on the condition.
Persistent pain is your cue to stop blaming the break-in period. The team at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group can help determine whether your shoes are contributing to the problem and develop a plan to protect your Achilles tendon. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
