What is the difference between acute and chronic pain?
A clinically reviewed guide to the two main types of pain — and why the difference shapes how each is treated.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt
Lead DirectorLast reviewed 1 July 2026
- Acute pain is short-term and usually has an obvious cause, like an injury or surgery.
- Chronic pain lasts beyond about three months and can persist after healing.
- Chronic pain can involve changes in the nervous system, not just ongoing damage.
What is Achilles tendinitis?
Achilles tendinitis is pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon due to overload, more accurately described as tendinopathy.
It typically develops when tendon load increases faster than the tendon can adapt — for example, a jump in running volume. It reflects a change in the tendon's structure rather than simple short-term inflammation.
What are the symptoms of Achilles tendinitis?
Typical symptoms are pain and stiffness at the back of the heel, worse in the morning and with activity.
- Pain and stiffness in the Achilles, often worst on first steps in the morning
- Pain that warms up then returns after activity
- Tenderness or thickening of the tendon
- Pain with jumping, running or calf raises
How is Achilles tendinitis treated?
The most evidence-based treatment is a progressive tendon-loading (strengthening) programme, alongside load management.
Gradually loading the tendon with calf-strengthening exercises is central to recovery. Shockwave therapy may be considered as an adjunct for stubborn cases. Complete rest is generally not recommended, as tendons need appropriate load to adapt.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for Achilles tendinopathy is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
When to seek urgent care
A sudden, sharp pain with a snapping sensation and difficulty walking or pushing off may indicate an Achilles rupture and needs prompt medical assessment.
Sciatica FAQs
Is chronic pain just acute pain that lasts longer?
Not exactly. Chronic pain often involves changes in how the nervous system processes signals, so it isn't simply a longer version of acute pain — which is why it usually needs a broader approach.
Does chronic pain mean something is still damaged?
Not necessarily. Chronic pain can continue after tissues have healed, because the nervous system stays sensitised. The pain is real, but it doesn't always mean ongoing damage.
How long until pain is considered chronic?
Generally, pain lasting longer than about three months — or beyond the expected healing time — is described as chronic. Some definitions use three to six months.
Can chronic pain be treated?
Yes. It may not always be fully cured, but chronic pain can very often be managed well, frequently restoring an active life, usually through a combination of approaches rather than one single treatment.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
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