A sudden feeling of being kicked or a pop sound during athletic activity, sudden stopping, or jumping can cause stress on the foot tendon. It can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty in standing or walking, and you need to visit a doctor immediately.
Achilles tendon injuries can be divided into acute ruptures and chronic injuries. The good news is that this can be treated with non-surgical practices. The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, and proper care of a rupture is important. Here, we will discuss the symptoms and treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture.
What is an Achilles Tendon Rupture
An acute Achilles tendon rupture is a partial or complete tear of the tendon that attaches your calf muscles to your heel bone. It can cause sudden pain and a “popping” sound. It happens when the tendon is stretched beyond its limits, often during sports activities like jumping, running, or falling. Tripping or twisting your ankle can also cause tendon rupture. This injury makes it difficult to walk, run, and stand on your toes.
Causes of Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles rupture can be due to many reasons, but the most significant are:
- Jumping or running
- Sudden stopping or walking
- Instant forced change in direction
- Falling or tripping
- Cut directly over the tendon
Symptoms of Tendon Rupture
The most common symptom of Achilles rupture is a sharp pain or a pop sound at the back of your ankle. The following are other symptoms of a ruptured tendon:
- Sudden extreme pain near the heel or back of the ankle
- Swelling at the ankle back
- Difficulty in walking
- Unable to stand on tiptoes
- Tenderness at the back of the ankle
Treatment and Management
The treatment of Achilles tendon rupture depends on several factors, such as age and activities. Before visiting the doctor, it demands immediate rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Other treatment options include non-surgical or surgical.
1. Non-surgical Treatment
It involves immobilizing the injured foot and ankle. The doctor will place your foot, ankle, and calf in a brace. Your foot and ankle will provide the time for the tendon to heal. It is considered effective if the patient’s age is under 50 because self-healing is faster at this age.
The foot brace will hold your leg in a position that allows healing of the tendon. With a foot brace, you can normally work and manage your chores. You should wear the brace at all times, including in bed, to ensure that your tendon is protected throughout the healing process.
2. Surgical Treatment
It is ideal for active individuals, particularly those in their middle ages. During surgery, a surgeon stitches the two ends of the torn tendon back together. The surgery isn’t preferred as it can have risks, but it can be beneficial for certain situations, such as:
- Late treatment
- In case of a re-ruptured tendon
- Athletes
People who want to have surgery are mainly athletes because they want an instant solution. After the surgery, the doctor will apply a cast on your foot and leg. With prevention and care tips, some patients are able to go home the same day.
