Achilles Tendon Embolization
for Chronic Achilles Pain
Minimally Invasive Relief for Refractory Achilles Tendinopathy
Joint & Vascular Institute
What is Achilles Tendon Embolization?
At Joint & Vascular Institute, we offer Achilles tendon embolization, an advanced, minimally invasive procedure for patients suffering from chronic Achilles tendinopathy who have not found relief through physical therapy, injections, or other conservative treatments.
This procedure targets abnormal blood vessels around the Achilles tendon that contribute to inflammation and pain—without requiring surgery or prolonged recovery time.
Find lasting relief from persistent heel and ankle pain with this innovative treatment option.
Get Help for Achilles Pain Symptoms
How Achilles Tendon Embolization Works
Chronic Achilles tendinopathy often involves abnormal neovascularization (new blood vessel growth) that fuels inflammation and prolongs pain. During Achilles tendon embolization, our skilled interventional radiologists:
- Identify the abnormal blood vessels contributing to Achilles pain
- Use tiny, medical-grade embolic agents to safely block these vessels
- Preserve normal circulation while reducing inflammation in the tendon area
This precise, image-guided technique reduces pain, enhances function, and allows patients to return to daily activities with improved mobility.
Benefits of Achilles Tendon Embolization
Achilles Tendon embolization offers several advantages over traditional treatments:
Minimally
Invasive
No large incisions, no hospital stay, and an average procedure time of about 30 minutes.
Targeted
Pain Relief
Directly addresses the abnormal blood vessels driving Achilles inflammation.
Quick
Recovery
Most patients resume light activity within days, with continued improvement over time.
Long-Lasting
Results
The Sugihara study demonstrated sustained pain relief and functional improvement up to 24 months after treatment.
No Surgery
Needed
An excellent option for patients who are not surgical candidates or prefer a non-surgical solution.
Joint & Vascular Institute
Am I a Candidate for Achilles Tendon Embolization?
You may be a good candidate for Achilles tendon embolization if you:
- Have chronic Achilles tendon pain that has not improved with therapy or injections
- Want a non-surgical solution with minimal downtime
- Are seeking faster recovery and long-term relief
Schedule a consultation with our team to find out if this advanced treatment is right for you.
Proven Clinical Success with Achilles Tendon Embolization
A recent multicenter clinical study by Sugihara and colleagues (2025) evaluated Achilles tendon embolization in 82 patients who had not responded to traditional therapies. The outcomes were overwhelmingly positive:
- Over 81% of patients achieved clinical success within 12 months
- Average pain scores dropped from 6.7 (moderate to severe pain) to just 1.5 at 24 months
- Functional ability, measured by the VISA-A score, improved from 48.4 (severe disability) to 82.2 (near full function) at 2 years
- No tendon ruptures or major complications were reported during long-term follow-up
These results highlight Achilles tendon embolization as a safe, effective, and durable solution for patients with chronic Achilles tendinopathy—restoring strength, mobility, and quality of life when other treatments have failed.
Academic Level Care.
Just Next Door.
From your first consultation to every step of your treatment, our providers bring advanced expertise and a personalized approach that puts you first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Achilles tendon embolization, and how does it work?
Achilles tendon embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces chronic tendon pain by blocking abnormal blood vessels that cause inflammation. Using a catheter, our interventional radiologists deliver embolic agents into these vessels, cutting off the source of inflammation while preserving healthy circulation.
What results can I expect?
Most patients experience meaningful pain relief within weeks, with continued improvements over months. In the Sugihara et al. study, over 80% of patients had more than a 50% reduction in pain at one year, with benefits lasting two years or longer.
How long is the recovery?
Recovery is typically quick. Most patients resume light activities within a few days, with gradual improvements in mobility and function over time.
Are there risks or side effects?
Complications are rare. In the multicenter study, no tendon ruptures or major complications were reported during a 24-month follow-up. Some patients may experience temporary soreness or bruising at the access site.
Personalized, Expert Care at Joint & Vascular Institute
Our team takes a personalized approach to every patient. From your first consultation, we’ll assess your condition, review your treatment options, and develop a tailored plan to maximize your pain relief and recovery.
Take the Next Step
Schedule a Consultation Today
If chronic Achilles pain is limiting your movement and quality of life, Achilles tendon embolization may be the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact our Libertyville office today to schedule your consultation.
Regain strength. Restore mobility. Live pain-free.