Achilles Tendon Anatomy
Tendons are the soft tissues connecting muscle to bone. The Achilles tendon is the longest tendon in the body and is present behind the ankle, joining the calf muscles with the heel bone. Contraction of the calf muscles tightens the Achilles tendon and pulls the heel, enabling the foot and toe movements necessary for walking, running and jumping.
Achilles Tendon Injury
The Achilles tendon is often injured during sports activities, resulting in an inflammatory condition called tendonitis, which is characterized by swelling and pain. In some cases, severe injury results in a tear or rupture of the Achilles tendon, requiring immediate medical attention.
Causes of Achilles Tendon Injury
The tear or rupture of the Achilles tendon is commonly seen in middle-aged men involved in sports activities. The tendon ruptures as a result of weakness due to advanced age or from sudden bursts of activity during certain sports such as tennis, badminton, and basketball. Having a history of tendonitis, certain diseases such as arthritis and diabetes, or certain antibiotics can make you more susceptible to ruptures.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Injury
The classic symptom of an Achilles tendon rupture is the inability to rise up on your toes. You may often experience a “popping” or “snapping” sound with severe pain, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle region, followed by bruising of the area. If the tendon is partially torn and not ruptured, pain and swelling may be mild.
Diagnosis of Achilles Tendon Injury
The diagnosis of a torn or ruptured Achilles tendon starts with a physical examination of the affected area. Thompson test may be performed where the calf muscle is pressed with you lying on your stomach to check whether the tendon is still connected to the heel or not. In certain cases, an ultrasound or MRI scan may be ordered for a clear diagnosis.
Treatment of Achilles Tendon Injury
The main objective of treatment is to restore the normal physiology of the Achilles tendon so you can perform your normal activities.
Treatment of a torn or ruptured Achilles tendon includes non-surgical or surgical methods depending on the patient’s age, activity level, and other medical conditions. After a rupture, it is important to see an Orthopedic Surgeon as soon as possible to discuss the best treatment option for you.
Minimally invasive surgery is a great option if surgery is the best option for you. The minimally invasive approach can help decrease your risks and increase your healing.
If a non-surgical method is best for you, this normally involves casting with your foot placed pointed down for 6-8 weeks.
Indications for Achilles Tendon Repair
Surgery may be recommended especially for competitive athletes, those who perform physical work, or in instances where the tendon re-ruptures.
Surgery is contraindicated if you have unhealthy skin, an active infection, are diabetic, smoke and lead a sedentary lifestyle, and are unable to confer with the requirements of postoperative recovery.
Achilles Tendon Repair Procedure
The surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, under a nerve block and sedation. An incision is made at the back of your leg. Your surgeon will stitch the torn tendon back together with strong sutures. Your surgeon may reinforce the Achilles tendon with other tendons depending on the extent of the tear. If the tendon has avulsed or pulled off the heel bone, your surgeon will reattach the tendon to the heel bone.
Postoperative Care following Achilles Tendon Repair
Following surgery, your leg will be placed in a cast or splint from your toes to just below your knee. You will be advised not to bear weight on your operated foot and will be prescribed crutches or a walker to help you move around. You will be prescribed a boot or cast for 2 to 6 weeks, then you may be allowed to start weight bearing on your leg around 6 weeks out from surgery. You will be advised physical therapy to regain strength and movement in your ankle and calf muscles. You will be able to regain full movement by 6 months and complete recovery in a year.
Complications of Achilles Tendon Repair
As with all surgical procedures, Achilles tendon repair may be associated with certain complications such as infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and blood clots.
