Why Do My Achilles Hurt When I Wake Up? Causes and Relief

Have you ever woken up with pain and asked yourself, "Why do my Achilles hurt when I wake up?" If you've experienced this, you're not alone. Morning Achilles pain is a common issue that can cause discomfort and affect your daily routine. Understanding why this happens and how to address it can greatly improve your quality of life.

In this article, a podiatrist in Centreville, VA will help us understand what morning Achilles pain is, its causes, symptoms, and diagnosis, and how to handle it effectively.

What is Morning Achilles Pain?

Morning Achilles pain refers to discomfort or stiffness experienced in the Achilles tendon upon waking up in the morning. This issue is commonly reported by individuals with Achilles tendonitis or tendinopathy, who may experience pain, stiffness, or a combination of both. 

The pain and stiffness can make it challenging to put weight on the affected foot and can impact mobility. This condition may be a result of the tendon becoming stiff during periods of inactivity, such as during sleep, leading to morning discomfort.

Common Causes: Why Do My Achilles Hurt When I Wake Up?

Why do my Achilles hurt when I wake up? There are several possible reasons for experiencing Achilles pain in the morning. Identifying the specific cause of morning Achilles pain is necessary for developing an effective treatment plan.

Stiffness from Inactivity

During sleep, our bodies are at rest, and this can result in stiffness in the Achilles tendon. Lack of movement and stretching during the night can lead to discomfort when we first put weight on our feet in the morning.

Achilles Tendinitis

Tendinitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the Achilles tendon. It can be caused by repetitive stress, overuse, or improper footwear. When the tendon becomes inflamed, it can lead to pain and stiffness, particularly in the morning.

Improper Footwear

Wearing shoes that do not provide proper support or cushioning can contribute to Achilles tendon issues. Shoes with inadequate heel support or that do not properly fit can put excessive strain on the tendon, leading to discomfort and pain in the morning.

Underlying Conditions

Certain underlying conditions can increase the likelihood of experiencing Achilles pain in the morning. Haglund's deformity, a bony enlargement on the back of the heel, can irritate the Achilles tendon and cause morning discomfort. Bone spurs or obesity can also contribute to inflammation and discomfort in the Achilles tendon.

Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Issues

Why do my Achilles hurt when I wake up? The symptoms of Achilles tendon issues can vary, but common indicators include pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, swelling, and difficulty with movements like standing on your toes or walking. 

Pain and Stiffness

Achilles tendon issues often cause pain and stiffness in the back of the heel. The pain may be sharp or dull and can range from mild to severe. Stiffness may be particularly noticeable in the morning or after periods of rest.

Swelling

Inflammation of the Achilles tendon can lead to swelling around the affected area. This swelling may be evident visually or felt when touching the back of the heel.

Difficulty with Movements

Individuals with Achilles tendon problems may experience difficulty with certain movements. These can include standing on your toes, walking, climbing stairs, or participating in physical activities that involve the affected tendon.

Diagnosis of Achilles Tendon Issues

If you experience persistent pain or notice any of these symptoms, seek a professional diagnosis from a podiatrist to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. The diagnosis process may involve:

Physical Examination

The healthcare professional will assess the affected area, checking for signs of swelling, tenderness, or a palpable lump. They may manipulate the foot and ankle to gauge the range of motion and identify specific points of pain.

Medical History

The healthcare provider will inquire about your symptoms, the duration and pattern of pain, previous injuries, and any known risk factors or underlying conditions that may contribute to Achilles tendon issues.

Imaging Tests

X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be ordered to obtain a more detailed view of the Achilles tendon. These tests can help diagnose conditions such as tendinitis, tendon tears, or bony abnormalities.

Additional Tests

In some cases, additional tests such as blood work or gait analysis may be performed to gather more information about your condition or to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

Treatment Options for Morning Achilles Tendon Pain

Several treatment options can help relieve morning Achilles pain. These may include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and specialized exercises. Here are the common treatment options for morning Achilles tendon pain.

Rest and Activity Modification

Resting the affected foot and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain allows the Achilles tendon to heal. Adjusting your activities or using a walking boot or crutches may be necessary in more severe cases to reduce stress on the tendon.

Ice Therapy

Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the Achilles tendon. Follow the recommended dosage and make sure to consult a healthcare professional before starting any medication.

Physical Therapy

A physical therapy program may include stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles surrounding the Achilles tendon. Hands-on techniques, such as massage or ultrasound therapy, may also be employed to promote healing and relieve pain.

Orthotic Devices and Proper Footwear

Custom orthotic devices or shoe inserts can provide support to the foot and ankle, reducing stress on the Achilles tendon. Wearing shoes with proper arch support and cushioning can also aid in reducing discomfort.

MLS Therapy or EPAT Shockwave Therapy

In more severe or persistent cases of Achilles tendon issues, advanced treatments like Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Therapy or Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT) Shockwave Therapy may be recommended. These therapies use specialized technology to stimulate healing and improve blood flow to the affected area.

Prevention Strategies for Morning Achilles Tendon Injuries

If you don't want to ask yourself this question "Why do my Achilles hurt when I wake up?" again, prioritize proactive measures to minimize the likelihood of experiencing Achilles tendon pain and discomfort upon waking. Implementing these prevention strategies can help reduce the risk of developing morning Achilles tendon injuries and promote overall foot and ankle health.

Proper Footwear Selection

Choose shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning for the feet, particularly in the heel and arch areas. Look for footwear designed for your specific activities, and consider consulting a professional for recommendations on suitable footwear based on your foot structure and gait.

Gradual Increase in Physical Activity

When starting a new exercise regimen or increasing the intensity or duration of physical activities, do so gradually to allow the Achilles tendon and surrounding muscles to adapt and strengthen over time.

Regular Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Incorporate gentle stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon into your daily routine. Strengthening exercises for the calf muscles can also help improve the stability and support of the Achilles tendon.

Adequate Rest and Recovery Time

Allow your body sufficient time to rest and recover after intense physical activity. Adequate rest is needed to prevent overuse injuries and minimize strain on the Achilles tendon.

Cross-Training and Variation in Activities

Engage in a variety of activities to reduce repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon. Cross-training and alternating between different types of exercises can help distribute the workload among different muscle groups and reduce the risk of overuse injuries.

Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Excess body weight can place additional stress on the Achilles tendon and increase the risk of injury. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition and regular physical activity can help reduce strain on the lower extremities.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to any early signs of discomfort or pain in the Achilles tendon. If you notice persistent or recurring symptoms, reduce your activity level and seek guidance from a healthcare professional to prevent further injury.

Seek Professional Help from a Podiatrist

If you're still wondering "Why do my Achilles hurt when I wake up?", you might be suffering from morning Achilles pain. 

Morning Achilles pain is a common issue that can cause discomfort and affect daily routines. It can be caused by factors such as stiffness from inactivity, Achilles tendinitis, improper footwear, and underlying conditions like Haglund's deformity. Resting the affected foot and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain allows the Achilles tendon to heal.

However, if you continue to experience persistent Achilles pain, we suggest that you seek professional help from a podiatrist. Dr. James Hurst, a dedicated podiatrist in Centreville, VA, specializes in comprehensive foot and ankle care. 

Don't let morning Achilles pain disrupt your daily activities – take proactive steps to address the issue and regain comfort and flexibility in your feet. Book an appointment with Dr. James Hurst today!