Achilles Tendinopathy — Exercises Studied in Research
Research has examined 57 approaches for this condition. This page shows what the studies found and where clinical guidelines landed — with a source behind every claim.
Clinical guidelines support 16 of the 57 approaches studied for this condition.
Compiled and reviewed by: Nikola Orlandić — Specialist in Applied Physiotherapy — Neurorehabilitation · Bachelor — Technology, pharmaceutical module · L0104 · Milena Orlandić — Specialist in Applied Physiotherapy — Neurorehabilitation · L0105
Evidence last updated:
Partner of the Chamber of Physiotherapists of Montenegro
What studies found
Each approach below was tested in clinical research. Sorted by where clinical guidelines stand.
Combined Loading (Silbernagel Protocol)
Evidence supports itclinicians can confidently use both programs in the rehabilitation of their patients with AT
Source: PubMed 34722783
Return-to-Sport Progression Criteria
Evidence supports itSource: PubMed 34391384
Eccentric Heel Drop (Alfredson Protocol)
Evidence supports itclinicians can confidently use both programs in the rehabilitation of their patients with AT
Source: PubMed 34722783
How these exercises and approaches were done in the studies — all in one document
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Exercises from the studies — how they were done
Which exercises, how often, for how long and how they were progressed — as published studies describe them, in one PDF document.
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What this document does not do
- It does not examine anyone or make a diagnosis.
- It does not make a plan for one person — it describes what published studies found in people with this condition.
- It does not replace a visit to a physician or a physiotherapist.
- It is written from published studies, not from your medical records.
Delivery language: the document is written in your selected language. Verbatim quotations from the source studies stay in their original language — translating them is not permitted, and it also lets you check every quote against the source.
See a sample report — Achilles Tendinopathy (PDF) →What science does not support
These approaches are widely offered, but published research found they do not help for this condition. Listed so you know before spending money — not as advice about any individual case.
- Night SplintNot supported by research
Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) · Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy · Physical therapies for Achilles tendinopathy: systematic review and meta-analysis
- Night SplintNot supported by research
Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) · Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy · Physical therapies for Achilles tendinopathy: systematic review and meta-analysis
- Therapeutic UltrasoundNot supported by research
UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approach · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) · Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy
- Eccentric Exercise + LLLTNot supported by research
Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) · Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy (Silbernagel 2020)
Whether any of this applies to your situation is something your physiotherapist or doctor can assess after examining you.
Does it work? — what research found
Every approach studied for this condition, sorted by where clinical guidelines stand. Not by popularity or marketing — by published research.
| Approach | Studies | Reviewed by | What science says |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combined Loading (Silbernagel Protocol)you can do this at homeStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | Evidence supports it |
| Eccentric Exercise (Alfredson Protocol)done with a specialistStudies: 40 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | 40 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | Evidence supports it |
| Eccentric Heel Drop (Alfredson Protocol)you can do this at homeStudies: 40 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | 40 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | Evidence supports it |
| Heavy Slow Resistance (Home)you can do this at homeStudies: 7 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 7 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Evidence supports it |
| Heavy Slow Resistance Trainingdone with a specialistStudies: 9 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 9 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Evidence supports it |
| Patient Education & Load Managementyou can do this at homeStudies: 4 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 4 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Evidence supports it |
| Progressive Calf Strengtheningyou can do this at homeStudies: 11 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 11 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Evidence supports it |
| Progressive Loading Programdone with a specialistStudies: 10 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 10 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Evidence supports it |
| Combined Loading (Silbernagel Protocol)done with a specialistStudies: 4 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy +1 | 4 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy +1 | Evidence supports it |
| Isotonic Calf Exercisedone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | Evidence supports it |
| Telehealth / Web-Based Exercisedone with a specialistStudies: 3 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 3 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | Evidence supports it |
| Telehealth Exercise Programyou can do this at homeStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | Evidence supports it |
Show all 57 approaches ↓
| Approach | Studies | Reviewed by | What science says |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criteria-Based Rehabilitationdone with a specialistStudies: 3 · Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy (Silbernagel 2020) | 3 | Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy (Silbernagel 2020) | Evidence supports it |
| High Tendon Compression Rehabilitationdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 | Evidence supports it |
| Low Tendon Compression Rehabilitationdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 | Evidence supports it |
| Return-to-Sport Progression Criteriayou can do this at homeStudies: 1 · Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy (Silbernagel 2020) | 1 | Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy (Silbernagel 2020) | Evidence supports it |
| Isometric Calf Exercisedone with a specialistStudies: 9 · UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approach, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +3 | 9 | UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approachAchilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +3 | May help |
| Isometric Calf Exercise (Home)you can do this at homeStudies: 7 · UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approach, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +3 | 7 | UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approachAchilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +3 | May help |
| Deep Friction Massage (Cyriax)done with a specialistStudies: 6 · UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approach, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | 6 | UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approachAchilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | May help |
| Dry Needlingdone with a specialistStudies: 4 · UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approach, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | 4 | UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approachAchilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | May help |
| Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)done with a specialistStudies: 19 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 19 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | May help |
| Foot Orthosesdone with a specialistStudies: 2 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 2 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | May help |
| Heel Liftsdone with a specialistStudies: 3 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 3 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | May help |
| Acupuncturedone with a specialistStudies: 2 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | 2 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | May help |
| Balance & Proprioception (Home)you can do this at homeStudies: 2 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | 2 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | May help |
| Eccentric Exercise + ESWTdone with a specialistStudies: 3 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | 3 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | May help |
| Prolotherapydone with a specialistStudies: 1 RCT; 1 prospective case series · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | 1 RCT; 1 prospective case series | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | May help |
| Sensorimotor / Balance Trainingdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +1 | May help |
| Eccentric Exercise + Soft Tissue Treatment (Astym)done with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | May help |
| Eccentric Plus Modalitiesdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | May help |
| Eccentric Plus Vibrationdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | May help |
| Eccentric Exercise + PRP Injectiondone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | May help |
| Hyaluronic Acid Injectiondone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy | 1 | Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy | May help |
| Eccentric Exercise + High-Volume Injectiondone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | May help |
| Eccentric Plus Myofascialdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | May help |
| Corticosteroid Injectiondone with a specialistStudies: 6 · UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approach, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | 6 | UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approachAchilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | Not enough research yet |
| Fluoroquinolone-Associated Tendinopathydone with a specialistStudies: eight studies · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | eight studies | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Not enough research yet |
| High-Volume Injection (HVI)done with a specialistStudies: 6 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 6 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Not enough research yet |
| Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)done with a specialistStudies: 4 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 4 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Not enough research yet |
| Eccentric Exercise + Cryotherapydone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) | Not enough research yet |
| Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN) Patchdone with a specialistStudies: 3 · Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy | 3 | Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy | Not enough research yet |
| Blood Flow Restriction Trainingdone with a specialistStudies: Thirteen studies were included, three on tendinopathy, two on tendon ruptures, and eight on healthy Achilles, patellar, and supraspinatus tendons · not yet reviewed | Thirteen studies were included, three on tendinopathy, two on tendon ruptures, and eight on healthy Achilles, patellar, and supraspinatus tendons | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Cryotherapy (Self-Applied)you can do this at homeStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Diathermy / TECAR Therapydone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Eccentric + Dietary Supplementdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Eccentric Exercise + Corticosteroid Injectiondone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Eccentric Exercise + PEMFdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Eccentric Plus Splintingdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Electroacupuncturedone with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Intramuscular Stimulation (Gunn IMS)done with a specialistStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Pain-Monitored Loadingyou can do this at homeStudies: 1 · not yet reviewed | 1 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Whole Body Vibration Trainingdone with a specialistStudies: 3 · not yet reviewed | 3 | not yet reviewed | Not enough research yet |
| Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT / PBM)done with a specialistStudies: 2 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | 2 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +3 | Science does not support itdepends on the stage of recovery |
| Night Splintdone with a specialistStudies: 3 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 3 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Science does not support it |
| Night Splintyou can do this at homeStudies: 3 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | 3 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final) +2 | Science does not support it |
| Therapeutic Ultrasounddone with a specialistStudies: 3 · UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approach, Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | 3 | UK Defence Rehabilitation consensus agreement for the conservative management of Achilles and patellar tendinopathy: a modified Delphi approachAchilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 +2 | Science does not support it |
| Eccentric Exercise + LLLTdone with a specialistStudies: 1 · Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final), Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy (Silbernagel 2020) | 1 | Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final)Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy (Silbernagel 2020) | Science does not support it |
Prevention
Factors that published studies link to higher or lower risk for this condition.
Maintenance Exercise Program (Eccentric/HSR)
Risk factor in studiesThis study suggested that calf-muscle exercise therapy may be worth continuing even after symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy have resolved.
Source: PubMed 34187784
Training Load Management
Risk factor in studiesThis study describes tracking complaints tied to (sports) activities with a pain scale and modifying those activities according to what the scale showed.
Source: PubMed 34187784
Patient Education & Load Management
Risk factor in studiesThis study suggested that basic management span at least 12 weeks and combine three components: education for the patient, management of load, and exercise therapy for the calf muscles.
Source: PubMed 34187784
Show all 8 prevention factors ↓
Balance & Proprioception Training
Risk factor in studiessensorimotor training combined with education showed improvements in VISA-A scores
Source: PubMed 39119510
Footwear / Heel Lifts / Orthoses
Risk factor in studiesThis systematic review describes orthoses as not recommended for improving pain and function in Achilles tendinopathy.
Source: PubMed 30170996
Fluoroquinolone & Statin Risk Awareness
Risk factor in studiesThis study reported that taking fluoroquinolones carries a heightened risk of tendon disorders.
Source: PubMed 38949172
Gradual Return-to-Sport Progression
Risk factor in studiesAccording to this study, resuming sport within days is linked to a higher chance of recurrence.
Source: PubMed 34187784
Calf Stretching & Flexibility
Risk factor in studiespassive static stretching of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles
Source: PubMed 39195578
Frequently asked
What works for Achilles Tendinopathy according to research?
Research supports: Combined Loading (Silbernagel Protocol), Eccentric Exercise (Alfredson Protocol), Eccentric Heel Drop (Alfredson Protocol), Heavy Slow Resistance (Home), Heavy Slow Resistance Training, Patient Education & Load Management. Based on Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024; Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final); Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy.
What does not work for Achilles Tendinopathy according to research?
Research found no benefit from routine use of: Night Splint, Night Splint, Therapeutic Ultrasound, Eccentric Exercise + LLLT. Based on Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024; Achilles Pain, Stiffness, and Muscle Power Deficits: Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy Revision 2024 (Final); Dutch multidisciplinary guideline on Achilles tendinopathy.
How much research is this based on?
For Achilles Tendinopathy, 57 approaches were evaluated, of which 44 have been reviewed by research bodies. Every data point traces to a published source.
Why do so many approaches say 'not enough research yet'?
Because that is the honest state of the research. 'Not enough research yet' means clinical guidelines have not taken a clear position, or few controlled trials exist for that approach. This page shows the entire landscape — not only the flattering rows.
What if the exercises don't lead to improvement?
Studies report results at the population level — individual responses vary. The literature also describes signs that call for a medical check (listed under 'When to see a doctor'), and a clinician is the right address for an individual assessment.
🚩 When to see a doctor
Some symptoms call for a medical check before any exercise: severe pain after an injury, numbness or tingling, weakness, fever with pain, night pain that does not ease, or bladder/bowel changes. If any of these are present, see a doctor first.
More safety signs →Healthcare professional?
The professional platform adds full source traceability — every data point leads to the exact study page.
Educational Information — PhysioSense is an educational reference tool based on published research. It does NOT replace a medical examination or physiotherapy assessment. If you have severe pain, new symptoms, or are unsure — see a doctor or physiotherapist. You always make the final decision about your exercise. Pain is a signal to stop.