Achilles Tendon Overview

The Achilles tendon, one of the body’s strongest tendons, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.

Achilles tendon pathology is all too common in the general population and even more frequent in athletic patients.

Injuries to the Achilles tendon often lead to pain, weakness and decreased athletic performance.

Learn more about Achilles tendon and various treatment options that may be right for you.

Also, visit OrthoPedia Patient for additional information and videos.

Achilles Tendinitis Treatment

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) information
More information on PRP

Achilles tendinitis, which is inflammation of the tendon, is usually caused by overuse. Elite level athletes and weekend warriors alike can experience this type of tendinitis.

Patient’s often experience pain, tightness, and an occasional “knot” to the tendon. These factors can also lead to weakness and inability to do certain activities.

Conservative treatment can be extremely effective to alleviate your symptoms.

Treatment Options:

  • Physical Therapy
  • Immobilization
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection
  • Arthrex Interfyl Injection
  • Shockwave/Laser Therapy
Schedule an Appointment

Achilles Tendon Tears & Ruptures Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment:

  • Immobilization
  • Non-weight bearing
  • Physical therapy
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection
  • Arthrex Interfyl Injection

Surgical Treatment:

  • Open or commonly known as traditional tendon repair
  • Minimally Invasive tendon repair
Schedule an Appointment

An Achilles tendon tear or rupture often happens due to sudden, intense movements. Patients often experience an acute sharp “pop” or “snap” to the Achilles tendon region.

This injury leads to pain and weakness, making walking challenging. If left untreated, ongoing weakness can persist. Inability to perform a calf raise or powerful “push off” while walking/running can remain.

Depending on your age, activity level, severity of injury and overall health, surgery may be advisable. A traditional open repair of the Achilles tendon or a newer, minimally invasive technique may be possible.

Video courtesy of Arthrex

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?

Schedule an appointment with one of our doctors

or call (760)-642-7009.

Schedule an Appointment