Achilles Tendon Rupture

Achilles Tendon Rupture is when there is a complete tear of the achilles tendon. This can occur suddenly usually during activity.

 

Causes

• Sudden jump or planting of the foot
• Chronic repetitive damage or tendinitis

 

Who is at risk for these injuries?

Pushing your body to quick to soon may lead to an increase in the chance of injury. This injury is commonly found in the middle-aged recreational athlete but it can happen to anyone at any age. 

 

Symptoms

• Heel pain and feeling of being struck in the back of the heel
• ”pop” or “explosion” is frequently felt
• swelling and defect of the tendon
• weakness in the foot

 

When should I seek further evaluation?

Further evaluation should be sought if you notice swelling or a defect in the tendon behind your ankle. There should also be a concern if you notice a foot drop or weakness in your foot.

 

What can you do to help prevent injury?

• Proper stretching of the calf muscles
• Wearing supportive shoewear
• Increasing activity gradually
• Doing a proper cool down and stretching after activity

 

Diagnosis

A physical exam will be done to determine the extent of the injury. Inspecting the back of the ankle for swelling and a deformity typically confirms the diagnosis of the tendon rupture. An MRI may also be requested to determine the location and extent of the injured tendon. Your physician may also want to determine the distance between the two torn tendon edges.

 

Treatment

• Non-Operative Approach 
• Achilles Tendon Repair