Achilles Tendonitis and Tears
The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscle to the heel bone. The largest tendon in the body, it is what allows the foot to rise up and push off when walking or running. It can become inflamed or ruptured (torn) due to overuse or improper exercise form.
What Causes Achilles Tendonitis and Tears?
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Not warming up your muscles before exercise
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Exercising hard without a gradual build-up (especially after a long interval of inactivity)
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Improper conditioning
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Overuse
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Lack of muscle flexibility
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Adding running or stair-climbing to your exercise routine without a gradual build-up
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Sudden bursts of speed
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Flat feet
What Are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis?
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Ache or pain after pushing off your foot
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Swelling, stiffness and tenderness at the tendon
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Pain after exercising that gradually increases
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If left untreated, it can result in a rupture
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Rupture?
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Sudden onset of pain and swelling
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Inability to bend your foot downward or walk normally
How Are Achilles Tendon Problems Evaluated?
Your physician will conduct a physical exam of your feet and ankle. Be prepared to answer questions about your exercise regimen. If a rupture is suspected, your physician may order an MRI.
How Are Achilles Tendon Problems Treated?
Self Care
For immediate care following an injury follow the PRINCE treatment model:
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P
rotect your ankle with a supportive brace. Use crutches until the pain subsides.
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R
est your ankle.
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I
ce your ankle several times a day for 10 to 20 minutes.
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N
onsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) help with pain relief and swelling reduction.
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C
ompression with an elastic compression wrap also helps reduce swelling—but it does not offer support when walking.
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E
levation. Raise your foot above the level of your heart to reduce swelling and bruising.
Nonsurgical
Your doctor may give a series of gentle stretches and range of motion exercises to improve flexibility.
Your doctor may prescribe
physical therapy
to learn proper exercise technique and form
Surgical
You may want to consider surgery if more conservative treatment options are not effective. There are two types of surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon; open (one large incision) and percutaneous (several small incisions). In both types of surgery, the surgeon sews the tendon back together through the incision(s). See
Achilles Tear Surgery
.
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).