Image Credit: Mayo Clinic
“Your health is what you make of it. Everything you do and think either adds to the vitality, energy and spirit you possess or takes away from it.”- Ann Wigmore
What is Achilles Tendon Rupture?
Achilles Tendon Rupture is a condition that occurs when the Achilles tendon separates into two separate parts after the introduction to a stress, that causes the tendon to shear then break! It is usually associated with hearing a loud “pop” in the feet once there’s a vigorous blow to the heel area. The variation in ankle conditions is expansive from minor conditions to debilitating conditions where patients cannot walk. Not all ankle pain sufferers are the same!
The symptoms list can be numerous! The symptoms of Achilles tendon rupture can be mistaken for additional ailments, so consult with your foot and ankle surgeon in order to determine what the root cause of your ankle pain is!
What are the symptoms of Achilles Tendon Rupture?
As an injury of the lower leg, the statistics have proven that the condition occurs when a blow is received to the back of the lower leg. As a ligament, the Achilles tendon facilitates the flexibility of the ankle joint. Athletes are the number one suffers from Achilles tendon rupture. Additionally, risk factors such as age, gender, antibiotic usage, obesity, and steroid usage have proven to increase the odds of Achilles Tendon Rupture.
As a strong fibrous cord, via the laws of physics, if stretched to the limit...the Achilles Heel will definitely break. Orthopaedics has identified two different types of rupture of the Achilles Tendon:
Complete Rupture: This results in the tearing of the tendon into two segments, as outlined in the image above.
Partial Rupture: This results in the partial tearing of the tendon. There will still be a joining of the tendon at one phase of the defect, but a separation at one stage.
What are the treatment options for Achilles Tendon Rupture?
With an excruciating pain that affects your ability to walk, the most common treatment for Achilles Tendon rupture is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Surgery is the ideal way to engineer the tendon back to its former glory. As with all surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon will assess the area, usually with a scan like an X-ray in order to determine where the problem is. Post surgery, you will be prescribed a recovery plan, to facilitate your healing.
While there are non-surgical treatments for Achilles tendon rupture, minimally invasive procedures have proven effective for healing the root cause, particularly for a internal tear. For maintenance of the ankle, stretching exercises have proven effective in facilitating the healing of the ankle regions. An appropriate physiotherapy will aid in the restoration.
Site Disclaimer: “‘Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.’
Reference:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendon-rupture/symptoms-causes/syc-20353234
