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What is an Achilles Tendon Rupture?

The Achilles tendon is a strong fibrous cord present behind the ankle that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is used when you walk, run and jump. The Achilles tendon ruptures most often in athletes participating in sports that involve running, pivoting and jumping. Recreational sports that may cause Achilles rupture include tennis, football, basketball, and gymnastics.

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What are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Rupture?

When the Achilles tendon ruptures, you will experience severe pain in the back of your leg above your heel, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty standing on tiptoe and moving the leg when walking. A popping or snapping sound may be heard when the injury occurs.

How is an Achilles Tendon Rupture Diagnosed?

Dr. Richardson can typically diagnosis a ruptured Achilles tendon based on your symptoms, history of the injury, and by performing a thorough physical examination. Sometimes higher level imaging such as an MRI of the ankle is required but not always. Dr. Richardson The physical examination performed typically consists of feeling for the presence of a gap or depression in the tendon, just above the heel bone. Dr. Richardson will typically gently squeeze the calf muscles to perform the Thompson test. If the Achilles tendon is intact, there will be flexion movement of the foot, if it is ruptured, there will be no movement observed.

What is the Treatment for an Achilles Tendon Rupture?

An Achilles tendon rupture is treated using non-surgical methods or surgery. Non-surgical treatment involves initially wearing a splint or special Controlled Ankle Motion (CAM) boot that lifts your heel and allows the tendon to heal. Then a standard functional Achilles rehab program is started within 1-2 weeks of the injury with early weightbearing following a strict protocol. Compliance with physical therapy and the functional rehab protocol is critical for a good outcome with either non-operative or operative care.

Surgical treatment involves opening the skin and suturing the torn tendon together. Dr. Richardson often performs this with the use of limited incision and/or minimally invasive techniques. Depending on your type of rupture surgery may help the lower the risk for recurrence of an Achilles tendon rupture and can lead to improved function during sports and activities of daily living.

As discussed previously, with either treatment, physical therapy through a functional Achilles tendon rehabilitation protocol is recommended to maximize your outcome and improve the strength and flexibility of the leg muscles as well as the Achilles tendon.

How do you Prevent an Achilles Tendon Rupture?

To help prevent an Achilles tendon injury, it is a good practice to perform stretching and warm-up exercises before participating in any exercises or sports activities. Gradually increase the intensity and length of time of the activity. Muscle conditioning may help to strengthen the muscles in the body.

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