Achilles Pinch Test: A Quick Way to Spot Damage

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we care about your foot and ankle health. If you're feeling pain in your heel or ankle, it’s important to find the cause early. One helpful test we use is the Achilles Pinch Test — a quick and easy way to check if your Achilles tendon is injured.

Meet Your Specialist: Dr. Kris A.

DiNucci

Dr. Kris A. DiNucci is a foot and ankle expert in Scottsdale, Arizona. He uses the Achilles Pinch Test to quickly check for Achilles tendon injuries. Our caring team is here to help you heal, walk comfortably, and feel better.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a strong band at the back of your leg. It connects your calf muscles to your heel bone, and it helps you:

• Walk
• Run
• Jump

Common Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Injuries:

• Pain in the back of your heel
• Swelling or stiffness
• Trouble walking or climbing stairs
• A snapping or popping sound while moving

It’s important to treat these symptoms early. That’s where the Achilles Pinch Test helps.

What Is the Achilles Pinch Test?

The Achilles Pinch Test is a fast and gentle exam. It checks if your Achilles tendon is sore or injured. Here's how it works:

1. You sit or lie down.
2. The doctor gently squeezes both sides of your Achilles tendon.
3. You say if it hurts.

If the pinch causes pain, it may be a sign of an injury.

Why Is This Test Important?

The Achilles Pinch Test helps your doctor:

• Identify the injury early
• Understand what’s causing your heel or ankle pain
• Plan the best treatment for you

This test is:

• Quick
• Safe
• Can be done on your first visit

Early testing means faster healing and less pain for you.

What Happens After the Test?

If the test shows signs of injury, Dr. DiNucci may:

• Ask questions about your pain
• Watch how you walk
• Order an ultrasound or MRI
• Give you a personalized treatment plan

Possible Treatment Options:

• Rest: Give your tendon time to heal
• Ice: Reduce swelling and pain
• Medicine: Relieve discomfort
• Stretching: Improve movement and strength
• Shoe inserts: Support your foot properly
• Physical therapy: Help you recover movement
• Surgery (rare): Only if severe damage is found

Who Should Get the Achilles Pinch Test?

You may need this test if you:

• Have heel or ankle pain
• Heard a “pop” in your heel while walking or running
• Play sports or run regularly
• Have tight calf muscles
• Had past foot injuries

This test is safe for:

• Kids
• Adults
• Seniors

Even if the pain feels small, early testing can prevent bigger problems later.

How to Keep Your Achilles Tendon Healthy

Follow these easy tips to protect your tendon:

• Stretch your legs daily
• Wear shoes that fit well
• Warm up before sports or exercise
• Cool down afterward
• Rest if you feel pain
• Visit a doctor if pain doesn’t go away

Taking care of your Achilles tendon helps you stay active and avoid serious injury.

What to Expect at Our Scottsdale Office

When you visit the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, you’ll meet Dr. DiNucci and our friendly staff. We:

• Listen to your concerns
• Explain your condition in easy terms
• Perform tests like the Achilles Pinch Test right away
• Start your treatment plan quickly if needed

You're never alone in your healing journey — we’re with you from the first step to full recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Achilles Pinch Test?

It’s a gentle squeeze of your Achilles tendon to check for pain or injury.

Does the test hurt?

It may feel sore if your tendon is injured, but the test is very quick and safe.

When should I get this test?

If you feel heel or ankle pain, especially while walking or running, this test helps find the cause early.

Can this test prevent bigger injuries?

Yes! Early testing and care can stop minor problems from turning into major ones.

Visit Our Achilles Tendon Specialist in Scottsdale Today

The Achilles Pinch Test is a simple but powerful way to understand your foot pain. If you’re feeling heel pain, it might be your Achilles tendon. Don’t wait until it gets worse.

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci and our expert team are ready to help. We make care easy to understand, quick to start, and focused on your recovery.

Take the first step toward relief. Call us or Request an Appointment today.