Several activities such as hiking, running, jumping, and other sports activities like volleyball, basketball, or other intensive activities can put much pressure on the Achilles tendon. One of the best ways to recover from foot injuries is to rest them. Yet, it could not be easy resting your feet and still carrying on your usual activities. The Achilles tendon is the human body's largest tendon that attaches the heel bone (calcaneus) to the calf muscles. Achilles tendonitis, also referred to as Achilles tendinitis, happens when the Achilles tendon becomes swollen, irritated, or aggravated. The pain incorporated with the condition can be unbearable. Let me first highlight the top 3 best walking boots for Achilles tendonitis… (scroll down for more details) Walking boots allow your foot to take adequate rest while still being able to walk around and do your day-to-day chores. Walking boots are not just for fractures; they could also alleviate heel pain, ball of foot pain, and other foot problems. Walking boot for Achilles tendonitis provides the support needed for your foot's fast recovery from the injury. They are designed to allow for a neutral foot position, thus subduing pain and even inflammation. I’ve compiled the best ones for you below and some useful insights to help you decide which pair of walking boots suits your condition. We've chosen Aircast AirSelect Walker Walking Boot as an overall best walking boot for Achilles tendonitis as it meets the qualities and positive reviews from customers. Aircast AirSelect Walking Boot AirSelect Walker has a rigid, durable shell that supports the foot a few inches above the ankle for full-shell protection to the leg. The rocker sole is incredibly lightweight, making it easy and comfortable to walk in a natural motion. Additionally, the soft strike technology helps shock absorption and dissipation to keep the foot in the right spot for faster healing. The air cells under the shell serve as a lining that alternates pneumatic compression 5-times for faster edema compression. For added compression, the air cell lining is expandable with air on both ankles and the back of the foot. It can also be deflated if you wish to take off the walking boot. AirSelect Walker is an open-frame intended to accommodate better ventilation, while the skid-resistant rubber step provides excellent traction and extensive wear. The sizing is based on the shoe size and comes in different sizes – x-small to x-large for a precise fit. The sizing chart is available on Amazon's order page. With three designs available – short, standard, and elite. This walking boot is Amazon's top pick and garnered many positive reviews from former users impressed with the product. We also highly recommend Aircast AirSelect Walker as the best walking boot for Achilles tendonitis. The Mars Wellness Premium Tall Air Walking Boot is a long walker suitable for Achilles tendonitis, ankle strain, foot or ankle fracture, and other injuries. It works well in stabilizing the foot, which promotes faster recovery. Mars Wellness Premium Tall Air Walking Boot The upgraded pneumatic system emits air in a fast and effective way for improved compression and pain relief. It also lessens swelling by directly applying compression on the affected foot. These walking boots are designed to promote a natural fluid motion pattern through their advanced beveled-edged sole. Since it's lightweight, it easily removes stress while wearing the boot. It features five adjustable straps in the outer shell that provides an allowance for custom compression. The outer shell is durable due to the polymer material used for the protection and stability of the product.5 Best Walking Boots for Achilles Tendonitis
1. Aircast AirSelect Walker Walking Boot
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The inner lining made with soft and breathable material helps keep away moisture and eliminates excess heat, thus, enhancing comfort and all-day function.
It comes in different sizes, so make sure to check their size chart for accurate sizing for your foot.
Mars Wellness Premium Tall Air is crafted with molded struts with excellent surface area contact that reduces pressure points. This boot for ankle tendonitis is also one of our top picks for Achilles tendon pain.
3. BraceAbility Sleeping Stretch Boot
If you're looking for an affordable walking boot for Achilles tendonitis, the Braceability Sleeping Stretch Boot is a great choice. It provides optimal support and durability to your foot all night long.
BraceAbility Sleeping Stretch Boot
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This boot helps alleviate the painful morning footsteps while walking. It lessens inflammation caused by Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, bone heel spurs, and drop foot.
BraceAbility Stretch Boot is worn with a compression sleeve. The thick outer shell promotes proper foot positioning while preventing any foot and ankle after injury to reduce the damage.
The boot is filled with light and breathable foam to prevent skin irritation for excellent comfort, making it also easily carried. The adjustable feature of the boot makes it secure for custom fit and a sturdy buckle fastener.
This boot is the best to consider for a low price when you budget for Achilles tendonitis.
4. United Ortho Calm Walker Boots
United Ortho Calm Walker Boots provide adequate support to your feet due to the rocker sole feature for better foot stability and a natural gait.
United Ortho Calm Walking Boot
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The rocker sole of Ortho Calm Walker Boots helps with the feet' natural gait and better cushioning. The shock-absorbing insole lessens the impact of heel pace while walking.
The walking boot's wide footbed provides enhanced stability and comfort while ensuring maximum balance and support to your feet as you wear them. Furthermore, the wide footbed provides a better fit, ideal for people with Achilles tendonitis.
This boot is designed for better compression as its air bladders allow custom compression and improved comfort and relief to your feet. It's also made with a plastic molded upper with a steel coating that provides enhanced stability.
5. Aircast SP Walking Boot
The Aircast SP (Short Pneumatic) Walking Boot restricts mobility while recovering from injury. It's designed to protect and implement pneumatic support for soft tissue injuries, forefoot/midfoot injuries, plantar fasciitis, bunionectomy, metatarsal fractures, and other postoperative use.
Aircast SP Walking Boot
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The walking boot features a low rocker design that ensures a natural stride while walking, despite the foot's complete immobility from movement. Aircast SP is large enough for wearing, so you'll ensure a comfortable drive.
The Aircast SP Walking Boot is worn on both the right and left leg. The lightweight and semi-rigid shell is trimmable for added space as needed. It comes with a handball air pump for easy customization of the amount of support you prefer.
What causes Achilles tendon pain?
Achilles tendonitis transpires in the heel area of the foot. The tendon in this region gets aggravated and enlarged, leading to painful injury around the heel region.
This condition mostly occurs in a sport when the tendon is overstressed and overburdened. It mainly triggers when a sudden shift in the intensity of the exercise is made.
The abrupt change in running intensity frequently occurs at the take-off period for most runners, leading to Achilles tendonitis. It can also happen when a sudden rise in the pace or intensity of walking.
Furthermore, older people are highly susceptive to Achilles tendonitis, particularly middle-aged athletes. As we get older, the tendon can become less resilient, causing tension and overstretching the muscle.
An unexpected change of footwear can also trigger Achilles tendonitis and other circumstances, including flat foot and wrong heel bone alignment.
Other Causes of Achilles Tendonitis
- Age – Tendon deteriorate as people age
- Excessive exercise without a proper warm-up
- Wearing high heel shoes for an extended period
- Bone spurs at the back of the heel
- Wearing ill-fitted or old shoe
- High blood pressure
What is the fastest and effective way to heal Achilles tendonitis?
Upon seeing rising symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, the best thing to do is consult your doctor immediately. Though some mild heel pain goes away on its own, paying a visit to your doctor may keep getting worse from mild to severe discomfort.
Achilles tendonitis treatment can also include the RICE method – Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation. These techniques precisely reduce swelling, discomfort, and inflammation.
Doctors will prescribe medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Moreover, some exercises in increasing the flexibility of the tendon, such as eccentric strengthening, may treat critical tendon problems.
Wearing an orthopedic boot and ankle brace are also advised by your doctor for better stabilization on the ankle joint to promote faster recovery.
What exercises can I do for Achilles tendon pain?
Some strengthening exercises for the Achilles tendon include:
- Toe stretch
- Calf-plantar fascia stretch
- Floor stretch
- Stair stretch
- Strength exercise
These exercises are also suitable for other foot injuries but are more efficient for Achilles tendonitis.
Buyer's Guide: Best Walking Boots for Achilles Tendonitis
Purchasing the best walking boots for Achilles tendonitis is one big decision for the security of your feet. It can be a daunting job as you have to consider certain factors.
Rocker Sole
The walking boot's sole must guarantee natural foot movements. People suffering from Achilles tendonitis should opt for a rocking sole that encourages more natural drives and can provide excellent shock absorption to your feet for extended hours.
Finding a comfortable sole along with the right shoe is necessary to withstand long hours of walking.
Support and Cushioning
A crucial factor to consider when buying walking boots is the level of cushioning and support it provides. People with Achilles tendonitis are encouraged to buy shoes with added support to help lessen pain while walking.
Proper heel cushioning is also important to prevent heels from getting pressure during movements.
Excellent Fit
If your walking boot doesn't fit you right, the chances of getting your feet hurt and other numerous foot problems are high. You must ensure that your shoes provide you with the right fit for the optimal amount of comfort and support.
Furthermore, lightweight shoes help you move fast if you are a runner and lessen pain while putting less pressure on your feet.
Design
The walking boot's design is a top priority for people with Achilles tendonitis. Avoid getting ill-fitting shoes that are too narrow or wide.
A wide toe bed and strap pattern are ideal for better comfort and support for extended hours. Walking boots with the wrong design and fit can lead to blisters, bunions, and ankle discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a walking boot help Achilles tendonitis?
Yes. Wearing a walking boot helps prevent the calf muscle from tearing on the Achilles tendon. It stabilizes the foot correctly to avoid worsening of the injury.
Take note; the walking boot is not the treatment; you will be prescribed the right treatment. All a walking boot fulfills is to give stability and protection for a faster healing process.
How long does Achilles tendonitis heal with a walking boot?
There's no definite time frame for the healing process as it entirely depends on the severity of the injury.
Some may undergo surgery, which requires wearing a walking boot for 12 weeks or longer. It is important to use the boot until you completely recover, regardless of how long it takes.
What's the ideal tightness of a walking boot for Achilles Tendonitis?
A walking boot for Achilles Tendonitis should be tight enough for optimal stability and compression to your foot but shouldn't restrict comfort.
Your physiotherapist's advice may be useful for this concern to guide and teach you appropriately.
Should you massage the sore Achilles?
Massaging the affected area may help reduce the swelling, promote circulation, and improve mobility. The friction generated by massaging can stimulate collagen production in injured tendons and treat the area quickly.
What happens if Achilles tendonitis goes untreated?
If left untreated, the situation of Achilles tendinitis normally gets worse. You will begin to feel chronic pain, while the tendon may get ruptured. The condition can become very severe and may lead to serious damage.
How to use a massage gun for Achilles tendonitis
Kitma Nitro Massage Gun
Best Walking Boots For Achilles Tendonitis, Final Thoughts...
The significance of wearing a walking boot provides several benefits in the recovery process of Achilles tendonitis. That's why getting the best walking boot for this condition is essential. A walking boot provides optimal stability and protects the foot from the surface impact that may hurt the injured area.
Overall, the Aircast AirSelect Walker Walking Boot is the best option among our many examined options. This walking boot is made with a rocker sole for better foot stability and promotes a natural stride.
A great walking boot that helps you stretch all night is also recommended, such as the BraceAbility Sleeping Stretch Boot. It is practical and effective for people with Achilles tendon pain filled with light and breathable foam.
We have chosen the best boot for ankle tendonitis you can get out there based on their features and customer feedback. I hope this article helped you decide on which one to get for your condition. If you don't want your problems to worsen, opt for a walking boot for Achilles tendonitis that best supports your foot, alleviates pain, and doesn't restrict your movement.
Shoe Choices by Activity for Women with Achilles Tendonitis
- Best Walking Boots For Achilles Tendonitis (2021 Buyers Guide)
- Best Ankle Support For Achilles Tendonitis
- Best Women's Work Boots For Achilles Tendonitis
- Best Women’s Work Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis (2022 Buyers Guide)
- Best Women's Sandals For Achilles Tendonitis (2022 Buyers Guide)
Shoe Choices by Activity for Men with Achilles Tendonitis
- Best Walking Boots For Achilles Tendonitis (2021 Buyers Guide)
- Best Ankle Support For Achilles Tendonitis
- Best Men's Work Boots For Achilles Tendonitis (2022 Buyers Guide)
- Best Men's Work Shoes For Achilles Tendonitis (2022 Buyers Guide)
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FAQs
What is the best boot for Achilles pain? ›
VACOped Achilles Injury/Fracture Orthosis Boot is the number one choice of patients and physicians alike for treating Achilles injuries. It has an adjustable, articulating ankle feature for dynamic settings such as plantar flexion and controlled Range of Motion (ROM) thus allowing and enabling an active recovery.
What kind of boot do you wear for Achilles tendonitis? ›The more common variation is the night splint for Achilles Tendonitis which stretches the tendon overnight. The last type of brace for Achilles Tendonitis are walking boots, also known as CAM or moonboots. These boots will hold the ankle firmly at a 90-degree angle to keep the Achilles Tendon in the same position.
How long does it take for Achilles tendonitis to heal with a walking boot? ›You will need to wear a cast or a walking boot for 6 to 12 weeks after surgery. At first, it may be set to keep your foot pointed downward as the tendon heals. You may be able to put weight on your affected leg after a few weeks. But it will be several months before you have complete use of your leg and ankle.
How do I stop my Achilles tendon from hurting when I walk? ›- Increase your activity level gradually. ...
- Take it easy. ...
- Choose your shoes carefully. ...
- Stretch daily. ...
- Strengthen your calf muscles. ...
- Cross-train.
Non-surgical treatments for Achilles tendinitis
Your doctor may tell you to limit your physical activity or switch to less strenuous activity. You may need to wear a brace or walking boot to prevent your heel from moving. Wearing a special shoe with a built-in heel can also help reduce tension on your heel.
Background: Achilles tendon injuries are commonly treated with stability boots that secure the ankle at a specific position and aim to reduce loading of the tendon. These boots allow full weight bearing by limiting the range of movement.
Is it good to wear a boot for Achilles tendonitis? ›A period of rest after the onset of symptoms is important in controlling Achilles tendonitis. Immobilization - In patients who have more significant symptoms, a period of immobilization can help. Either a removable walking boot or a cast can allow the inflamed tendon to cool down quickly.
How long should you wear a boot for Achilles tendonitis? ›Usually, the pattern we see is that the athlete has experienced consistent Achilles pain and has seen someone who recommends that they wear a boot to decrease what they suspect is inflammation by immobilizing the whole foot. Sometimes they wear the boot for 3-4 weeks, sometimes it's longer and closer to 6-8 weeks.
How long do you wear a walking boot for tendonitis? ›The goal of a walking boot for tendonitis of the foot and ankle is to decrease tension on those tendons in order to allow healing to start. How long to wear it? Most of our patients wear the boot for 10 – 14 days.
Do you need a walking boot for tendonitis? ›Physical therapy can be beneficial. You may need a short leg cast or walking boot if you have this type of tendonitis. This allows the tendon swelling to go down. After that, you may need to wear a brace or orthotics (shoe inserts that hold your foot in a better position).
What are the side effects of wearing a walking boot? ›
The skin under the boot is burning or stinging, or you have a warm or painful spot under the boot. You have numbness or tingling in the foot or toes that doesn't go away when you adjust the tightness of the boot. There is a lot of swelling near the boot. (Some swelling is normal.)
Can walking too much cause Achilles tendonitis? ›You use your Achilles tendon when walking, running, and jumping. Tendonitis due to overuse is most common in younger people. It can occur in walkers, runners, or other athletes. Tendonitis from arthritis is more common in middle-aged and older adults.
Do compression socks help with Achilles tendonitis? ›Medical grade compression improves circulation in the feet by applying targeted compression over the mid-foot and ankle. The compression directly reduces superficial swelling by supporting the Plantar Plexus network of veins while directly stabilizing the Achilles tendon.
What is the best support for Achilles tendon? ›The primary types of supports for Achilles Tendonitis and Achilles Injury are compression ankle braces / sleeves, night splints, and walking boots. Shoe inserts (heel lifts or orthotics) can also be helpful. Compression ankle braces / sleeves provide support to the Achilles tendon.
What not to do when you have Achilles tendonitis? ›Avoid stretches that put more strain on the Achilles; such as hanging stretches or stair stretching. Do not “run through the pain.” Overusing the Achilles tendon causes continued damage, which may delay recovery. Avoid steroid injections.
What exercises should you not do with Achilles tendonitis? ›- Walking up and down ladders for work.
- Walking on uneven ground for long periods.
- Walking up and downhill.
- Gardening, or other activities involving squatting.
- Sporting activities involving jumping, running, sprinting.
With rest, Achilles tendonitis usually gets better within 6 weeks to a few months.
Does wearing a walking boot help Achilles Tendonitis? ›A period of rest after the onset of symptoms is important in controlling Achilles tendonitis. Immobilization - In patients who have more significant symptoms, a period of immobilization can help. Either a removable walking boot or a cast can allow the inflamed tendon to cool down quickly.
Does a walking boot help insertional Achilles Tendonitis? ›Initial treatment of this condition is always non-‐operative, as 85 to 90% of cases improve with non-‐surgical methods. These treatments include achilles tendon stretches, heel-‐lifts, ice, and anti-‐inflammatory medication. A walking boot can also be used to rest the tendon and reduce inflammation.
What should you not do with Achilles Tendonitis? ›Achilles Tendinitis Treatment Don'ts:
Don't overstretch. An eccentric stretching routine is most effective. Avoid stretches that put more strain on the Achilles; such as hanging stretches or stair stretching. Do not “run through the pain.” Overusing the Achilles tendon causes continued damage, which may delay recovery.
Do compression socks help Achilles tendon? ›
Medical grade compression improves circulation in the feet by applying targeted compression over the mid-foot and ankle. The compression directly reduces superficial swelling by supporting the Plantar Plexus network of veins while directly stabilizing the Achilles tendon.
How do you fix an Achilles tendon without surgery? ›Non-surgical treatment starts with immobilizing your leg. This prevents you from moving the lower leg and ankle so that the ends of the Achilles tendon can reattach and heal. A cast, splint, brace, walking boot, or other device may be used to do this. Both immobilization and surgery are often successful.
How do I know my Achilles tendon is healing? ›- You can move your leg as easily and freely as your uninjured leg.
- Your leg feels as strong as your uninjured leg.
- You don't have any pain in your leg when you walk, jog, sprint, or jump.
Insoles are not recommended as a stand-alone treatment for Achilles Tendonitis. There may be some patients who will still find benefits in using orthotics for Achilles Tendonitis. The most recommended treatment is exercise therapy which is progressed appropriately for the patient.
Do calf raises help Achilles tendonitis? ›Calf raises are essential in the treatment of both Achilles Tendonitis and Plantar Fasciitis. This is because both conditions result in unhealthy adaptation in your tendons. The way to reverse these adaptations is to load the tendons correctly. Both Achilles Tendonitis and Plantar Fasciitis are easy to diagnose.