What are Achilles ruptures?
An Achilles tendon rupture is a painful injury that affects the tendon in your ankle joint. It’s a thick, fibrous cord that connects your heel bone to muscles in your calf. This type of injury may happen while playing sports or being physically active. You might hear a pop during the injury, followed by intense ankle pain.
What are the symptoms of Achilles ruptures?
Common symptoms associated with Achilles tendon ruptures include:
- Severe ankle pain
- Ankle swelling
- Immobility
- Reduced foot range of motion
- Pain with walking
- Inability to stand on your toes
- A snapping or popping sound during the injury
If you suspect your or a loved one has an Achilles tendon rupture, see a Michigan Foot & Ankle Institute, PC, podiatrist immediately.
What are the risk factors for Achilles ruptures?
Playing sports is a common risk factor for Achilles ruptures. Other risk factors include high-intensity physical activity, jumping, stepping in a hole, and falling down. Steroid injections, taking certain antibiotics, weak muscles and joints, and obesity can also make you more susceptible to Achilles ruptures.
How does my doctor diagnose Achilles ruptures?
To diagnose an Achilles rupture, your podiatrist discusses your symptoms and inspects your lower leg and ankle for swelling and tenderness. They might feel your Achilles tendon or squeeze your calf muscle while you kneel on a chair or lie down.
Your Michigan Foot & Ankle Institute, PC, specialist might order an MRI scan or ultrasound to establish the extent of Achilles tendon injury you have.
What are common Achilles rupture treatments?
Your podiatrist personalizes Achilles rupture treatments based on the severity of your injury, preferences, and lifestyle.
Home remedies
Common non-surgical approaches for treating Achilles ruptures include resting the tendon, using crutches, icing the affected area, wearing a boot or cast, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers while your injury heals.
Surgery
Minimally invasive surgical procedures allow your podiatrist to stitch a torn tendon back together or reinforce it with other tendons.
Physical therapy
After your tendon heals, therapy stretches, strength exercises, functional rehabilitation, and stability training can strengthen tissues and help you return to your pre-injury abilities.
At the first sign of an Achilles rupture, seek medical attention. Call the Michigan Foot & Ankle Institute, PC, office or book an appointment online today.
