Achilles Tendon Rupture
If you’ve experienced an Achilles Tendon Rupture or suffer from serious leg pain, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What is an Achilles Tendon Rupture?
An Achilles tendon rupture affects the back of the lower leg, which can affect anyone but usually targets athletes who participate in recreational sports. The Achilles tendon consists of a strong fibrous tissue that connects the bottom of the calf muscle to the heel bone. If you overstretch the Achilles tendon, it can tear completely or just partially. Unlike Achilles Tendon Bursits which cause small, fluid-filled sacs known as bursae act as thin cushions between the bones and muscles throughout the body.
When the Achilles Tendon ruptures, you may hear a pop, followed by a sharp pain in the back of the ankle and lower leg that will likely affect the ability to walk properly. Some patients experiencing an Achilles tendon rupture may assume they have only suffered a painful sprain or tendon tear. Surgeons often need to perform surgery to repair the rupture. For many patients however, nonsurgical treatment can work just as well.
Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Rupture
While some people may not experience any symptoms, most people experience:
- The feeling of having been kicked in the back of the leg
- Severe pain and swelling of the heel
- An inability to bend the foot downward
- An inability to stand on the toes
- A popping or snapping sound when the injury occurs
Patients should immediately seek medical advice if they hear a pop in the heel, especially if they find walking difficult.
Causes of an Achilles Tendon Rupture
The Achilles tendon helps you point the foot downward, rise on the toes and push off the foot as you walk. You rely on it every time you walk and move your foot.
A Rupture usually occurs in the section of the tendon situated 2 1/2 inches from the point where it attaches to the heel bone. This section might rupture due to poor blood flow which also can impair its ability to heal.
A sudden increase in the stress on the Achilles tendon often causes ruptures. Common examples include:
- Increasing the intensity of exercise
- Falling injuries
- Stepping into a hole
Recovery After an Achilles Tendon Rupture
Recovery after an Achilles tendon rupture focuses on restoring tendon strength, ankle function, and mobility through either surgical or nonsurgical management. Surgeons repair a complete rupture by reconnecting the torn tendon, while healthcare providers treat some ruptures with immobilization in a cast or walking boot that positions the foot downward to encourage healing. Patients gradually transition to weight-bearing activities according to the treatment plan and use crutches or other assistive devices during the early recovery phase when needed. Physical therapists guide stretching, range-of-motion exercises, strengthening, balance training, and gait retraining to improve flexibility and function while reducing the risk of reinjury. Regular follow-up appointments allow healthcare providers to monitor healing, adjust rehabilitation, and determine when patients can safely return to work, sports, and other daily activities.
If you have any questions for our Texas based orthopedic specialists, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.
