Yoga with an Achilles Injury – Is It Safe?

Can I practice yoga with an Achilles injury?

An Achilles injury often changes how you relate to movement — especially if yoga was part of your routine before.
What used to feel supportive may suddenly feel uncertain.

The reality is more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

The short answer

Yoga can be possible with an Achilles injury — but only under specific conditions.

It depends on:

• the stage of healing
• how much load is placed on the Achilles tendon
• whether movements stay pain-free

Yoga is not automatically safe just because it is often described as “gentle”.

Why yoga can be challenging for the Achilles tendon

Many yoga practices include:

• stretching of the calf muscles
• active or passive dorsiflexion (foot moving toward the shin)
• standing positions that place significant load on the tendon

Depending on the injury and timing, this can:

• increase pain
• slow down healing
• create setbacks, especially in early phases

When yoga may be helpful

Yoga can support recovery when:

• the focus is on breathing, relaxation, and awareness
• movements are done seated or lying down
• the Achilles tendon is neither stretched nor loaded

In later stages, yoga may also help rebuild:

• strength
• coordination
• confidence

-gradually and with care.

Important note

This page does not replace medical or physiotherapy advice.

Safety depends on:

• the type of injury (e.g. rupture, tendinopathy)
• the phase of healing
• your individual tolerance to load