Percutaneous Achilles Lengthening
IF YOU HAVE PERCUTANEOUS ACHILLES LENGTHENING, PLEASE SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH ONE OF OUR ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
What is Percutaneous Achilles Lengthening?
Percutaneous Achilles lengthening is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to address Achilles tendon contracture or tightness. Surgeons make a small incision near the Achilles tendon and utilize specialized instruments to gradually lengthen the tendon without fully opening the area. This approach aims to alleviate tension and enhance ankle mobility by incrementally stretching the tendon.
Typically performed under local or general anesthesia, the procedure offers a quicker recovery period compared to traditional open surgery. Following surgery, patients are often advised to undergo physical therapy to restore ankle strength and flexibility. Percutaneous Achilles lengthening effectively treats conditions like equinus deformity, where the ankle lacks proper bending ability, and other issues resulting from tight Achilles tendons. This treatment enables patients to regain mobility and alleviate pain associated with tendon tightness, improving their overall quality of life.
Treatment for Percutaneous Achilles Lengthening
Treatment following percutaneous Achilles lengthening focuses on optimizing recovery and restoring normal function of the tendon and ankle. Initially, patients are advised to rest and elevate the affected leg to reduce swelling and promote healing. Ice therapy may be used to manage post-operative discomfort and inflammation.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, starting with gentle exercises to regain range of motion and gradually progressing to strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle strength around the ankle. Therapists also provide guidance on proper stretching techniques to prevent stiffness and promote flexibility in the Achilles tendon.
Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers monitor progress and ensure that recovery milestones are being met. Patient education on activity modification and proper footwear helps prevent recurrence of Achilles tendon issues. Overall, a comprehensive treatment plan supports successful recovery after percutaneous Achilles lengthening, aiming to restore mobility and improve quality of life for patients
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Rehabilitation and recovery following percutaneous Achilles lengthening are essential for restoring normal function and mobility of the ankle. Initially, patients focus on reducing swelling and incisional pain through rest, elevation, and ice therapy. Physical therapy begins soon after surgery to promote healing and regain strength and flexibility in the Achilles tendon and surrounding muscles.
Therapists tailor exercises to gradually increase range of motion and improve muscle tone. Initially, this involves gentle stretching and mobility exercises, progressing to more challenging activities as the tendon heals. Patients also learn proper techniques for stretching and strengthening the calf muscles to support the newly lengthened Achilles tendon.
As rehabilitation progresses, therapists monitor the patient’s recovery, adjusting the treatment plan as needed to achieve optimal outcomes. Patient education on home exercises, activity modification, and gradual return to normal activities supports long-term recovery and reduces the risk of tendon rupture. Regular follow-up appointments ensure continued progress and address any concerns that may arise during recovery.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SPEAK TO AN FOOT AND ANKLE ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST IN DALLAS, FORT WORTH, OR THE LONE STAR STATE, GIVE US A CALL AT 817-697-4038, OR CONTACT US OVER THE WEB. TELE-MEDICINE APPOINTMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE.
