Achilles tendon inflammation
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. It works with every step, jump, or rise onto your toes.
When the load becomes too great or repetitive, the tendon starts to become inflamed.
Common causes:
• running and jumping
• sudden increase in training
• excessive load in the gym
• poor footwear or hard surfaces
• shortened calf muscles
• overuse after prolonged standing
Inflammation feels like discomfort and pain in the back of the lower leg — closer to the heel.
What an inflamed Achilles tendon feels like
People often describe it as:
• "pain during the first steps"
• "pulling and burning above the heel"
• "after training, I can barely stand on my toes"
• "morning stiffness in the tendon area"
Sometimes, swelling or slight warmth is felt in the Achilles area.
How SWT helps with Achilles tendon inflammation
The Achilles tendon has poor blood supply, so it heals slowly.
SWT initiates processes that accelerate recovery.
What shockwave therapy provides:
• reduces tendon inflammation
• decreases pain during movement
• improves blood supply and tissue nutrition
• increases elasticity and strength of tendon fibers
• helps recover after sports loads
• relieves tension in calf muscles that provoke the problem
This is one of the most effective methods for Achilles tendinopathies.
How the procedure is performed
The specialist identifies the inflamed area and associated muscle tensions.
Then, they adjust the device and treat the tendon and adjacent structures.
A session includes:
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Work on the Achilles area
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Treatment of calf muscles
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Impact on points of overexertion
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Gentle recommendations for home recovery
The procedure lasts 7–10 minutes.
A course consists of 4–6 sessions.
What results to expect
• pain reduction after the first procedures
• easier transition to standing on toes
• reduction of morning stiffness
• comfort during walking and training
• decreased tension in the calves
• gradual return to normal load
Clients often notice that the area becomes "more alive" and movements are more natural.
Who is SWT suitable for with Achilles inflammation
• runners and athletes
• people with overexertion after training
• those who walk or stand a lot
• clients with chronic pain above the heel
• masseurs and rehabilitation specialists working with the lower limb
Contraindications
• oncological processes in the affected area
• pregnancy
• acute infections
• blood clotting disorders
Why the QT1001 device is well-suited for the Achilles tendon
The QT1001 provides an accurate and stable impulse that effectively works on tendon structures.
Advantages of the device:
• power up to 10 Bar
• wave penetration depth up to 60 mm
• comfortable work on thin tendon structures
• nozzles suitable for lower limb areas
• handpiece lifespan up to 2 million impulses
• pre-set protocols for working with the Achilles tendon
The device performs well even in chronic cases where other methods yield weak results.
Get a consultation
Need to add procedures for Achilles tendon recovery or start SWT in your practice?
We will advise on parameters, provide training, and help integrate the procedure using the QT1001 device.
Frequently asked questions about SWT for Achilles tendon inflammation
Why does the area above the heel hurt specifically in the morning?
After sleep, the tendon becomes less elastic; the first steps create a sharp load — hence the "starting" pain and stiffness.
How many procedures are usually needed?
On average, 4–6 procedures with an interval of 3–7 days. Relief is often felt after 1–2 sessions.
Can I run during a course of SWT?
Light jogging is gradually reintroduced once the pain has significantly reduced. Volume and intensity are increased incrementally.
Does SWT help with chronic Achilles tendonitis?
Yes. Therapy improves blood supply to the tendon, reduces inflammation, and initiates recovery even with long-standing complaints.
Is the session painful?
Sensations are moderate and controllable. Intensity is adjusted individually to maintain comfort.
Do I need to do anything at home between procedures?
Gentle calf stretches, gradual return to activity, and comfortable footwear are beneficial. If needed, cool down after workouts.
When should I see a specialist again?
If the pain does not decrease or a sharp "stab" appears during a step — a consultation is mandatory.
Are there any contraindications?
Standard ones: pregnancy, oncology in the treated area, acute infections, blood clotting disorders.
How long does one session last?
About 10–15 minutes, including parameter setup and brief recommendations.
