Achilles Tendon Rupture
The Achilles tendon (heel cord) is a strong fibrous band that connects the calf muscle to the calcaneus (heel bone). It functions to lift the heel from the ground. It is also responsible for the movement in which the top of the foot points forward, away from the leg. Commonly, this is the motion that is utilized when pressing down on a gas pedal.
When the Achilles tendon is stretched beyond its capacity, a partial or full thickness rupture may result. Common ways of sustaining an Achilles tendon is from a forceful jump (i.e basketball) or falling from a height.
“Weekend warriors are susceptible to Achilles tendon ruptures. The term “weekend warrior” describes a middle-aged individual who is less conditioned and participates in athletic activities primarily on weekends. Less commonly, certain medications may weaken the tendon and contribute to a rupture.
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis:
The foot and ankle specialist will perform a detailed history of the injury. Examination of the foot and ankle with focus on the motor strength will be performed. Overall, the foot structure, muscle strength, joint motion and integrity of the Achilles tendon will be examined. Most commonly there will be weakness upon pushing down (as on a gas pedal). X-rays, ultrasound and MRI’s are routinely performed.
Treatment
Based on the severity of the rupture, patient’s activity level, and patients’ health status, surgical or non-surgical treatment will be implemented. Generally non-surgical treatment is associated with a higher rate or re-rupture and weakness in push off strength, therefore is reserved for less active patients and those with multiple comorbidities. Nonsurgical treatment involves the use of casts, braces, boots, heel lifts to assist will healing of the Achilles tendon. Surgical repair often decreases the likelihood of re-rupturing and regains the patient's push off strength. Various surgical options are available. Your foot and ankle doctor will discuss all treatment options and tailor the appropriate treatment plan.
The Achilles tendon (heel cord) is a strong fibrous band that connects the calf muscle to the calcaneus (heel bone). It functions to lift the heel from the ground. It is also responsible for the movement in which the top of the foot points forward, away from the leg. Commonly, this is the motion that is utilized when pressing down on a gas pedal.
When the Achilles tendon is stretched beyond its capacity, a partial or full thickness rupture may result. Common ways of sustaining an Achilles tendon is from a forceful jump (i.e basketball) or falling from a height.
“Weekend warriors are susceptible to Achilles tendon ruptures. The term “weekend warrior” describes a middle-aged individual who is less conditioned and participates in athletic activities primarily on weekends. Less commonly, certain medications may weaken the tendon and contribute to a rupture.
Signs and symptoms
- Frank pain (feels like a kick or stab) in the back of the ankle or leg. Frequently subsiding to a dull ache.
- Popping or snapping sensation
- Difficulty with walking and difficulty with pushing “downwards”. The difficulty with walking is emphasized when trying to walk up a hill or stairs.
- Swelling, bruising at the site of rupture
- Rest: stay off the injured extremity
- Ice: Ice the area, with a towel between the ice and the skin. Never put ice directly on the skin
- compression: wrap the foot with an ACE bandage
- Elevation: elevate on 2 pillows or above the level of the heart
Diagnosis:
The foot and ankle specialist will perform a detailed history of the injury. Examination of the foot and ankle with focus on the motor strength will be performed. Overall, the foot structure, muscle strength, joint motion and integrity of the Achilles tendon will be examined. Most commonly there will be weakness upon pushing down (as on a gas pedal). X-rays, ultrasound and MRI’s are routinely performed.
Treatment
Based on the severity of the rupture, patient’s activity level, and patients’ health status, surgical or non-surgical treatment will be implemented. Generally non-surgical treatment is associated with a higher rate or re-rupture and weakness in push off strength, therefore is reserved for less active patients and those with multiple comorbidities. Nonsurgical treatment involves the use of casts, braces, boots, heel lifts to assist will healing of the Achilles tendon. Surgical repair often decreases the likelihood of re-rupturing and regains the patient's push off strength. Various surgical options are available. Your foot and ankle doctor will discuss all treatment options and tailor the appropriate treatment plan.