What Is An Achilles Tendon Rupture?

An Achilles tendon rupture is a condition in which the Achilles tendon, which is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, tears partially or completely. It is a relatively common injury that often occurs during sports activities that involve jumping, pivoting, or sudden acceleration and deceleration movements.

The rupture can cause sudden and severe pain in the back of the ankle, as well as swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or standing on the affected foot. The severity of the rupture can vary from a partial tear to a complete rupture, where the tendon is completely torn apart. A complete rupture may require surgical intervention, while a partial tear may be treated with non-surgical methods, such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and the use of a brace or walking boot.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some of the common symptoms include:

  • Sudden and severe pain in the back of the ankle or calf, which may feel like a kick or a pop in the tendon.
  • Swelling and stiffness in the affected area.
  • Difficulty standing on the affected foot or walking normally.
  • A gap or indentation in the tendon where the rupture occurred.
  • A snapping or cracking sound at the time of the injury.

If you suspect that you have ruptured your Achilles tendon, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent further damage and promote proper healing. Your doctor may perform a physical examination, order imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI, and recommend appropriate treatment based on the severity of the injury.

What Is The Treatment For An Achilles Tendon Rupture?

The treatment for Achilles tendon rupture depends on the severity of the injury. A complete rupture may require surgical intervention, while a partial tear may be treated with non-surgical methods.

Non-surgical treatment options may include:

  • Resting and elevating the affected leg to reduce swelling and promote healing.
  • Applying ice to the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Wearing a cast or walking boot to immobilize the ankle and allow the tendon to heal.
  • Physical therapy to help restore strength and flexibility to the affected leg.

Surgical treatment may be recommended in cases of a complete rupture or if non-surgical treatment does not produce desired results. Surgery involves reattaching the torn ends of the tendon with sutures or anchors. Following surgery, a cast or walking boot is worn for several weeks to immobilize the ankle and allow the tendon to heal.

In both non-surgical and surgical treatment options, rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy are essential for a full recovery. It may take several months for a complete recovery, and proper rehabilitation is important to reduce the risk of re-injury.

TIPS & INFO

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Common causes include sudden acceleration or deceleration, jumping, or pivoting movements, particularly in sports like basketball, tennis, or running.

Diagnosis involves a physical examination, including the Thompson test, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to assess the extent of the injury.

Without proper treatment, complications such as chronic pain, weakness, and increased risk of re-injury can occur.
Immobilization helps protect the tendon during the initial healing phase, reducing the risk of re-injury.
Yes, conditions like tendinopathy or corticosteroid use can weaken the tendon, increasing the risk of rupture even without acute trauma.
The Thompson test assesses the integrity of the Achilles tendon by squeezing the calf muscle and observing foot movement; lack of movement suggests a rupture.