Carriero Foot and Ankle | Encinitas, CA

The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in your body, which plays a key role in running, jumping, walking, and standing. Despite its strength, the Achilles tendon can rupture or tear under certain conditions.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a serious injury that can lead to significant pain and loss of function. If you’re concerned about a potential Achilles tendon rupture or are recovering from one, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential.

What is an Achilles Tendon Rupture?

An Achilles tendon rupture occurs when the tendon, the fibrous band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone, tears partially or completely.

The injury is more common in athletes, especially those over the age of 30, but it can also occur in individuals who don’t engage in intense physical activity.

Causes of Achilles Tendon Rupture

The Achilles tendon can rupture due to a variety of factors, often involving sudden or excessive strain placed on the tendon. Common causes include:

Sudden Explosive Movements
Weak or Deconditioned Tendon
Previous Achilles Injury
Improper Footwear
Overuse and Repetitive Stress

Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Rupture

An Achilles tendon rupture typically causes a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the ankle or lower calf, and symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the rupture. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly affect the outcome of your recovery. Common symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture include:

Sudden, Sharp Pain: A tearing or snapping sensation is often felt in the back of the ankle, followed by immediate pain, similar to being kicked in the heel.
Swelling and Bruising: Swelling can develop quickly around the injury site, and bruising may appear a few hours after the rupture.
Difficulty Walking or Standing on Tiptoe: Inability to push off the ground properly when walking or running, or to stand on your toes.
Visible Gap or Defect: In more severe cases, a gap or depression may be felt or seen in the tendon where the rupture occurred.
Weakness in the Ankle: You may experience weakness in the ankle, making it difficult to walk normally or perform tasks that require forceful movement, like jumping.

Achilles Tendon Rupture MRI — MRI showing Achilles tendon rupture.

How is an Achilles Tendon Rupture Diagnosed?

To diagnose an Achilles tendon rupture, our doctors will conduct a thorough physical examination.

A Thompson test, which involves squeezing the calf muscle to check for movement in the foot, is commonly used to confirm a rupture.

Imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis, determine the extent of the rupture, and assess any damage to surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options for an Achilles Tendon Rupture

Non-Surgical Treatment

In some cases, especially for those who are less active or have partial ruptures, non-surgical treatment may be appropriate. Non-surgical treatment typically includes:

Rest and Immobilization
Physical Therapy
Use of Orthotic Devices
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection
Arthrex Interfyl Injection
Pain Management

Surgical Treatment

In cases of a complete Achilles tendon rupture or for active individuals who require a more reliable recovery, surgery is often recommended. Surgical treatment typically involves:

Open Reduction and Repair: Our doctor will make an incision in the back of the ankle, locate the torn ends of the tendon, and stitch them back together.
Percutaneous Repair: In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure is used, where small incisions are made and sutures are threaded through the skin to repair the tendon.

After surgery, the ankle will typically be placed in a cast or walking boot to immobilize it while the tendon heals. Physical therapy will follow once healing has progressed enough to regain strength and function in the tendon.

Video courtesy of Arthrex

Conclusion

An Achilles tendon rupture is a serious injury that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Whether treated surgically or conservatively, recovery is a gradual process that requires dedication and patience. By following our doctor’s instructions and rehabilitation, you can expect to regain full function in your ankle. Most individuals can return to their normal activities, and athletes can return to sports once they’ve fully healed. Contact our office today for evaluation today.

Frequently Asked Achilles Tendon Questions

Are x-rays, ultrasound, or a MRI necessary?

Your doctor will typically require some form of imaging. This will help them to confirm the severity of the injury and evaluate other factors associated with the Achilles tendon.

How do I know if I need Achilles tendon surgery?

After evaluation with one of our doctors, they will review treatment options with you which may include surgery. Several factors which are considered include: the severity of injury, your activity level and your overall health status.

Am I a candidate for Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or other injections?

Our doctors will review multiple factors to determine if you are an ideal candidate for an injection. The severity of the injury, your activity level, and other health conditions will all be taken into consideration.

Am I a candidate for minimally invasive Achilles tendon repair?

If you seek prompt medical evaluation and depending on the type of tear, minimally invasive Achilles tendon repair is possible. This is determined by our physician after a formal evaluation of your injury.

Have additional questions?

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or call (760)-642-7009.

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