A ruptured Achilles tendon is an injury that occurs when there is a partial or complete tear in that particular tendon. Tendons are thick bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. The Achilles tendon stretches from the heel bone to the back of the calf muscle in a person's lower leg and ankle. It is also sometimes called the heel cord.
This type of injury is often acquired while a person is exercising or playing sports. It is frequently caused by the sudden application of stress or pressure to the tendon. In most injury cases, patients attempted to increase physical activity too quickly or too forcefully. A person may also rupture his Achilles tendon when he falls from an elevated position.
There are several risk factors that may make a person more susceptible to developing a ruptured Achilles tendon. This injury is more likely to occur in people who are overweight or obese. Most ruptures occur in people who are between the ages of 30 and 40. Men are also more likely to suffer from Achilles tendon problems. Some illnesses, such as diabetes and arthritis — as well as certain medications, like injected cortisone — may also render the tendon more prone to rupture.
People who experience symptoms of a possible ruptured Achilles tendon should get medical help immediately and refrain from placing weight on that leg. Some symptoms may include severe pain and swelling in the area. Many patients report difficulty walking. Sufferers may be unable to bend the affected foot downward, or to stand up on their toes. Also, when the injury occurs, a person may hear a snapping or popping sound.
Unlike many other injuries, a conservative treatment method is generally not recommended for a ruptured Achilles tendon. Non-surgical treatment often results in a weakened tendon that does not function properly and is more likely to re-rupture. If the tendon has ruptured more than once, it is more difficult to repair properly with surgery. Patients who do opt for conservative treatment methods may wear a special boot on the foot, ankle, and leg while the tendon heals.
Surgery for a ruptured Achilles tendon is more commonly recommended. In this procedure, a surgeon will make an incision to allow access to the tendon. The tendon will then be stitched back together. If it is badly damaged, it may need to be reinforced with other tissues.
Recovering from this surgery often takes six to eight weeks. The patient recovers while wearing a special boot or brace. Following recovery, patients should work with a physical therapist to restore function and strength to the tendon and surrounding muscles. Some of the possible risks of Achilles tendon surgery include infection, blood clots in the leg, and bleeding.
