Achilles Tendon Injury

The Achilles tendon is the large tendon that connects the three calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus), which helps to transfer power from the calf muscles to the feet, giving rise to the toes as they push off when walking. Several problems can affect the Achilles tendon, including Achilles tendonitis, bursitis and tendon ruptures.

Pain just above the heel  Tenderness Swelling Hearing a popping or snapping sound at the time of the tendon rupture Sharp pain, redness and swelling over the Achilles tendon area The patient can usually walk, but cannot raise up on their toes

The main cause is a repeated strain to the Achilles tendon, causing it to become inflamed and swollen after overuse. If the tendon is used continuously, the repeated wear and tear forms a scar tissue that is not as elastic as the normal tendon tissue. As a result, the tendon becomes weak, and is more susceptible to a rupture.  The tendons of elderly people lose their elasticity gradually, and are more prone to injury. Tight calf muscles, flat feet and ill-fitted footwear may contribute to Achilles tendonitis. The activities that can trigger an Achilles tendon injury include running without warming-up, forceful jumping, sudden increase in running speed or distance, hill running or stair climbing. Many patients with tendon ruptures have a history of Achilles tendonitis.

Get plenty of rest Avoid running or exercise. If you are a health nut, and need to have some physical activity, try low impact exercises such as swimming to stay lean.  Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen Ice massage  A brace to support the calf muscle Stretching exercises that involve the calf muscles The ruptured tendon is generally treated by either surgical repair or cast immobilization. However, the chance of re-rupturing the tendon is greater with cast immobilization than it is with surgical repair.

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