What is an Achilles Tendon Rupture?
An Achilles Tendon Rupture is the partial or complete tearing of the tendon located above the heel. This rupture is complemented by pain that is likely severe, swelling near the heel and an inability to bend the foot or push off the injured leg. The rupture often sounds like a “pop” or a “snap” when it happens.
Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Rupture:
On some cases, Achilles tendon ruptures present with no signs or symptoms, but most people will experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Swelling and pain near the heel
- Restricted range-of-motion and an inability to bend the foot downward
- Inability to stand on the toes of the affected leg
- A popping or snapping sound when the injury occurs
Causes of an Achilles Tendon Rupture:
An Achilles Tendon rupture can be caused by a variety of things, but often occur due to a sudden increase in the demand and stress placed on the Achilles tendon, which is why these are seen commonly observed in athletes performing an explosive movements.
Diagnosing An Achilles Tendon Rupture:
There are many parts to diagnosing an Achilles tendon rupture. Your doctor will likely start by conducting a physical exam and ordering imaging tests to determine the extent of your Achilles tendon injury. Your doctor may request further insight on your symptoms and how the injury was sustained. They’ll also likely feel the back of the calf and heel, where the Achilles tendon is located, to check for levels of inflammation and assess where the pain may be originating from.
Testing your range-of-motion on the affected leg will likely also be done using what’s called a Thompson test. For this test, you lie face down on an exam table as your feet hang off the end. Your doctor will squeeze a calf muscle and if that action does not cause the toes to point downward, it’s likely that the Achilles tendon is ruptured.
From there, imaging tests will be ordered to further confirm the suspected diagnosis and provide a more in-depth look at the Achilles tendon and affected area. X-rays and MRI scans are both commonly used to further confirm a rupture of the Achilles Tendon.
Surgery for an Achilles Tendon Rupture:
Surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles Tendon is often recommended for athletes or active individuals that wish to restore their tendon to full strength and function similarly to pre-injury levels. The surgery technique used widely among physicians involves make an incision in the back of the ankle to access the torn tendon. The physician will then stitch the tendon back together. In some cases, your physical may perform additional procedures with the goal of reinforcing the injured tendon. Using sutures and anchors may also be necessary to further strengthen the repair.
Recovery from surgery for an Achilles Tendon Rupture:
Following surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles Tendon, your doctor will likely immobilize your ankle with the use of a cast or a boot. This will allow the tendon to repair and heal properly. Physical therapy is also an essential component in the recovery process. Not only will physical therapy help the tendon regain strength and flexibility, it will also improve the overall function of the ankle. It’s important to follow your physician’s recommendations for post-operative rehabilitation as closely as possible to optimize recovery and return to normal as quickly as possible.