Top Physical Therapy Exercises for Achilles Tendinopathy

While rehabing achilles tendinopathy, it'll be important to adequately load the tendon to get it stronger without overloading it and causing further exacerbation. Find the proper entry point and continue to progress. There are be variations based on level of function, pain, and individual goals. Below are some common exercises during achilles tendinopathy rehab.

Banded Ankle Dorsiflexion Mobilization

This is a good one to address ankle joint stiffness that may be affecting the tendon

Heel Raises / Calf Raises

It's important to find a proper entry point for heel raises. For example, if standing heel raises are too difficult, seated can be done instead. If double leg heel raises are too easy, it can be progressed to single leg. If more ankle mobility is needed, standings can be done on the edge of a step to allow further ankle stretching at the bottom.

Leg Strengthening

Oftentimes, those with achilles tendinopathy could benefit from leg strengthening to provide more support to the tendon. There's a lot variation here depending on what needs to be addressed and what current level the patient is at.

Early stage: bridges, clamshells, sidelying leg raises, single leg balance

Mid-late: squats, side steps, lunges, SL RDL, captain morgans

Late-stage: hops, squat jumps, lunge hops, split stance heel raises

Exercise Equipment Used