Achilles Tendon Injuries & Torn Achilles

The Achilles tendon, which runs from your heel bones to your calf muscles, is commonly known as the largest tendon in your body. Unfortunately, Achilles tendon injuries can occur quite commonly in sports activities such as jumping, running, walking, football, Baseball, Softball soccer, tennis, swimming, and basketball among others.

Torn Achilles can be highly problematic for athletes, and often sidelines them completely during recovery. Achilles tendon injuries can hinder one's ability to move freely or perform in virtually any sports activity. This foot injury is best known for its ability to cause extreme discomfort and excruciating pain. But, it can be fixed.

What causes Achilles tendon injuries?

A torn/ruptured Achilles tendon can occur as a result of many things. For starters, Achilles injuries can affect anyone regardless of whether they are active in sports activities or not. These injuries can be caused by any of the following factors;

·      Wrong footwear

·      Overstretching

·      Fallen arches/flat feet

·      Steroid injections

·      Physical fitness activities

·      Age

·      Weak or stiff leg muscles/tendons

·      Consumption of fluoroquinolones antibiotics

·      Sudden leg movements

Symptoms of Achilles tendon injuries

·      Tenderness/swellings/stiffness

·      Excruciating pain

·      Movement problems, particularly when stretching your ankle or knee

·      Inability to stand on your toes

·      Skin discoloration

·      Bruising

·      Discomfort/uneasiness

·      Disturbed sleep patterns

·      Mood disorders such as stress and anxiety

Prevention of Achilles tendon injuries

You can lower risks of developing Achilles tendon tears/ruptures problems through the following tactics and tips;

·      Wear appropriate footwear: Resist from wearing high heels or uncomfortable, or ill-fitting shoes.

·      Engage in stretching the calf muscles to help create more flexibility in your tendons/muscles significantly.

·      Exercise regularly, and remember to warm up beforehand.

·      Avoid running, jumping or exercising on uneven surfaces.

·      Increase your training intensity at a slow pace.

·      Avoid engaging in risky or vigorous physical activities that may mount extreme stress on your tendon Achilles unnecessarily.

Diagnosis of Achilles tendon injuries

Achilles tendon ruptures or tears can be diagnosed through the following mechanisms;

1.     Physical exams

Any reputable healthcare professional or orthopedic doctor can conduct a thorough physical exam to diagnose a torn or ruptured tendon. Your GP may scrutinize your lower leg for swellings, tenderness, bruises or skin discoloration. A gap in your tendon Achilles may be an indication of a severe rupture.

2.     X-rays

The advancement in medicine technology has been a great boost to the general healthcare sector. Doctors can examine the extent of a torn/ruptured tendon Achilles through the use of x-rays.

3.     Ultrasounds

Your doctor may decide to conduct an in-depth inspection on your lower leg using ultrasounds to determine the extent of your Achilles inflammation, tear, rupture or any other damage.

4.     MRI Scans

MRI scans have become popular among doctors due to their effectiveness in facilitating detection of ruptured or torn Achilles.

Treatments for Tendon Injuries

Having a torn Achilles or ruptured tendon? Well, you don’t have to stress yourself excessively. Achilles injuries can be treated through the following techniques;

1.     Non-surgical methods

Doctors may be able to treat a torn Achilles using non-surgical, non-invasive methods such as exercising, elevation, ice, rest, stretching, or just being careful.

2.     Physical therapy

Your doctor can treat your torn/ruptured tendon using a physical therapy program.

3.     Surgery

This is normally the best option for treating severe Achilles tendon ruptures according to many doctors. Your GP may recommend an orthopedic surgery after realizing that all other treatment options are ineffective.

4.     Rehabilitation

Your doctor may recommend a rehabilitation program that combines regular exercises, well-balanced diet, and physical therapy after your non-surgical or surgical treatment for a quicker Achilles tendon injury recovery.

Remember to live life to its Fullest

Dr. Kevin Crawford

4110 22nd Place Lubbock, TX 79410

(806) 792-4329

Disclaimer:  This information is provided as an educational service only, and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.  Anyone seeking specific medical advice or assistance should consult his or her doctor or orthopedic surgeon.