Achilles Tendon Injuries
What are Achilles Tendon Injuries?
Achilles Tendon Injuries Definition
The most common Achilles tendon injuries are a tear/rupture after a sudden injury or inflammation resulting in tendinitis/tendinosis from overuse.
Achilles Tendon Injuries Symptoms and Anatomy
The Achilles tendon is located at the back of your heel. The Achilles tendon is continuous with the calf muscles higher up in the back of your leg. A tight Achilles predisposes you to many injuries.
In the case of an Achilles tear, a pop may be heard associated with sharp pain, difficulty bending your ankle downwards and walking with a limp.
In instances of Achilles tendonitis the pain may occur gradually and worsen with walking.
Achilles Tendon Injuries Treatment Options
Both non-surgical and surgical options are available for Achilles injuries. This decision is made in consultation with your Orthopedic surgeon and can be influenced by many factors that include your age, activity level and other coexisting medical conditions. Non-surgical methods include the use of medications, cast /brace, crutches/walker and physical therapy.
Achilles Tendon Injuries Surgery
If surgery is recommended, for new Achilles tears a direct repair of the torn tendon with sutures is performed and in the case of Achilles tendonitis the inflamed portion is removed along with any bone spurs and the tendon is then reattached. Both procedures are followed with a short period of cast/brace immobilization and physical therapy.