This article will discuss what exactly happens when the Achilles tendon tears, including the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. It will also discuss how these injuries are diagnosed by healthcare professionals and the various approaches to treatment, from non-surgical methods to Achilles tendon repair surgery.
If you’re experiencing Achilles tendon pain or have recently suffered an injury, consider reaching out to Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in the Greater Columbus, Ohio, area for expert guidance and personalized care.
Visiting an orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.
“You were prepared regarding my foot issues before you stepped in the room! I appreciated your knowledge, explanations and graphics to show me what we can do. You gave me hope today!! Thank you!” — Heidi C.
A ruptured Achilles tendon happens when the strong band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone tears. It’s like the “spring” in your step suddenly snaps. This injury often occurs during sports or sudden movements, like jumping or running. When the Achilles tendon tears, you may feel a pop or sharp pain in the back of your leg, followed by difficulty walking or standing on your toes.
The calf muscles and Achilles tendon work together to help you move your foot up and down. When the tendon is torn, you might lose some of that movement and strength in your foot and ankle.
An Achilles tendon rupture can happen for a few reasons. One common cause is sudden movements that put a lot of stress on the tendon, like jumping or pivoting during sports. Sometimes, the tendon can become weakened over time, especially if you don’t stretch or warm up properly before exercising.
Imagine your Achilles tendon as a strong rope connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. When you push off your foot to jump or run, the tendon helps your muscles move your foot. But if the force on the tendon is too much, or if it’s already weakened, it can tear.
This tear can happen in a few different ways. Sometimes, it’s a partial tear where only some of the tendon fibers are damaged. Other times, it’s a complete tear, meaning the tendon is completely ruptured or torn apart.
When you have an Achilles tendon injury, you might notice a few key symptoms. One of the most common signs is a sudden, sharp pain in the back of your leg or ankle. Some people describe it as feeling like they’ve been kicked. You might also hear a popping sound when the tendon tears.
After the injury, you might have difficulty walking or standing on your toes. Your foot and ankle might feel weak, and you might have swelling or bruising around the area.
If it’s a completely ruptured Achilles tendon, you might feel like you can’t push off your foot properly, and you might have trouble bending your foot downward. Pay attention to any changes in your calf muscle too, as it might feel like a gap or indentation where the tendon tore.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after a sudden movement or activity, it’s essential to see a doctor to get the right treatment for your Achilles tendon rupture.
Diagnosing Achilles tendon ruptures often starts with a physical examination. The doctor will check for swelling, tenderness, and a gap in the tendon, especially if you can’t point your foot downward or push off properly.
To confirm the diagnosis, imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI might be used. These tests can show the extent of the tear and help the doctor decide on the best treatment.
In some cases, a simple test called the Thompson or calf squeeze test may be done. During this test, the doctor squeezes the calf muscle while observing the movement of the foot. If the foot doesn’t move, it could indicate a torn Achilles tendon.
Once diagnosed, treatment can begin to help you recover from the torn tendon and get back to your normal activities.
Treatment for Achilles tendon ruptures can vary depending on the severity of the injury and your lifestyle. For minor tears or partial ruptures, nonsurgical methods like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with wearing a brace or boot to keep the foot stable, may be enough.
However, for complete tears or severe injuries, surgery might be necessary to repair the tendon. During Achilles tendon repair surgery, the torn ends of the tendon are stitched back together, allowing it to heal properly.
After either surgical or nonsurgical treatment, physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery. It helps to strengthen the muscles around the tendon, improve flexibility, and gradually reintroduce movement and weight-bearing activities. With proper treatment and rehabilitation during physical therapy, most people can regain strength and function in their foot and ankle after an Achilles tendon rupture.
Preventing Achilles tendon injuries involves taking care of your body and being mindful of how you move. Here are some tips:
By incorporating these preventive measures into your routine, you can help protect your Achilles tendons and reduce the risk of injury.
Achilles tendon ruptures can be painful and disruptive, but with proper treatment and rehabilitation, most people can regain strength and function in their foot and ankle. Whether you’re dealing with a minor strain or a complete tear, it’s essential to seek the guidance of a qualified orthopedic specialist.
At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Columbus, OH, our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatment options for Achilles tendon injuries. Don’t let an Achilles tendon rupture hold you back from enjoying your favorite activities. Take the first step towards recovery by scheduling an appointment with us today!
Medically reviewed by Terrence M. Philbin, DO
