Did I Rupture My Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscle to the heel bone. It plays a vital role in helping us walk, run, and jump – allowing us to push off the ground with our feet. If the tendon is overstretched beyond its limit or suddenly subjected to too much force, it can be partially or completely torn or ruptured.
How Do You Tear Your Achilles Tendon?
A ruptured Achilles tendon can occur suddenly, such as in sports that require jumping and sprinting movements as well as sudden starts and stops. It can also tear if it's been subjected to repetitive movements over time, and sometimes, it can even happen as the result of a slip and fall.
Achilles tendon ruptures are more common in men than women and frequently occur in people between the ages of 30 and 40 but may happen at any age. Other risk factors for tearing your Achilles tendon include:
Age-related wear and tear
A previous Achilles tendon injury
Weekend warriors or people who go hard after a long break
Some medications, such as steroids and certain antibiotics
Tightness or lack of flexibility in the calf muscles
Did I Tear or Strain My Achilles Tendon?
Achilles tendinitis occurs from overuse, when the tendon is irritated and inflamed but not torn. A strain occurs with an injury when the tendon and muscle get overstretched without tearing or only partial tearing. Symptoms of an inflamed or strained Achilles tendon may include:
Pain and swelling in the back of the ankle
Stiffness in the affected area, especially in the morning
Pain that worsens with activities such as running or jumping
Decreased range of motion
Achilles tendonitis can often be treated successfully with conservative methods; however, it does require some level of care to ensure a full recovery. Learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of Achilles tendonitis.
A torn Achilles tendon, on the other hand, is a partial or complete rupture of the tendon.
The degree of pain and severity of the symptoms may vary depending on the extent of the injury. Signs that you might have ruptured your Achilles tendon include the following:
Sudden and severe pain in the back of the ankle and lower leg
A “popping” sound or sensation at the time of injury
Difficulty walking on the injured leg
Unable to stand on your tiptoes
Swelling or bruising near the heel
Inability to push off on the affected foot
Does a Ruptured Achilles Tendon Need Surgery?
Dr. Elton of Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery is well-known throughout Eagle and Summit counties as the go-to foot and ankle surgeon. Every year, he and his team help skiers, runners, tennis players, and many other patients get back to the activities they love after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon.
After a confirmed diagnosis, Dr. Elton will recommend a treatment plan that takes into consideration the severity of your injury (partial or complete tear), overall health, and activity level.
Although nonsurgical methods may be a good option for some people, surgery is the most common form of treatment for Achilles tendon ruptures. Surgically repairing the tendon reduces the risk of a re-rupture, allows for a faster recovery, and helps restore full strength and function.
Learn more about how Team Elton treats Achilles tendon injuries in this video:
Achilles Tendon Pain? Contact Vail’s Premier Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Specialist
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture, or have been dealing with ongoing Achilles pain, contact Dr. Elton at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery today.
Dr. Elton and his team are known for their compassion, care, and commitment to getting patients back to their favorite sports or activities as quickly and safely as possible.
Making An Appointment
Call (970) 476-7220 to book your appointment right away (same-day or urgent care appointments are available)