A Comprehensive Guide to Achilles Tendon Strains

By Tim Wall, MS, ATC

 

A Comprehensive Guide to Achilles Tendon Strains

Achilles tendon strains, also known as Achilles muscle strains, are painful injuries that can significantly impact an individual’s mobility. In this comprehensive guide, we aim to provide an in-depth understanding of strained Achilles, including their causes, Achilles strain symptoms, diagnosis, Achilles heel strain treatment options, prevention techniques, and recovery methods. This will empower you to make informed decisions about your health and manage Achilles tendon strains more effectively.  You can trust the expert physicians at JOI for the care of your Achilles Tendon Injuries.

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon present in the body, and spans from the heel to the middle of the lower leg. Its function is to attach the calf muscle. This comprises of the two heads of the gastrocnemius muscle and the soleus muscle to the heel bone called the calcaneus.

These structures combine to allow for the ankle to perform the movement of plantar flexion or pointing your foot away from you. The plantar flexion is involving in movements like:

• standing on your tiptoes
• pushing off to run
• landing from a jump

However, despite the size and strength of the Achilles tendon, it is prone to injury because of the high stress that is placed on the tendon because of its inherent function. Furthermore, there are certain conditions can increase a person’s risk of serious injury. Also, the effect of aging can weaken the tendon. In addition, chronic tendinopathy from disuse or poor gastroc-soleus muscle length can weaken the tendon.

Moreover, a torn Achilles tendon is an injury that can result from a weakened state and can be a partial or full tear (most common). Furthermore, typical mechanism of injury includes a sudden change of direction, requiring a push off, or landing from a jump. In this condition, the ankle is forced into dorsiflexion, resulting in high-tensile forces resulting in the tendon failing.

Exploring Achilles Tendon Strains

A strain in the Achilles tendon, the body’s largest tendon, refers to an injury resulting from overuse or excessive force. This tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, plays a crucial role in activities like walking, running, and jumping. Overuse, such as repetitive running or jumping, can lead to micro-tears in the tendon fibers, causing Achilles tendon strain symptoms. Furthermore, sudden forceful movements often seen in sports activities can also cause strained Achilles.

If you experience pain, tenderness, or swelling along the back of your heel or calf muscle, you may have a pulled muscle in the Achilles tendon. Other signs of Achilles tendon strain symptoms include stiffness or a reduced range of motion in the affected leg. In severe cases, a popping sound or sensation may be felt at the time of injury.

What are the Common Signs and Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Tears?

• a sudden onset of severe pain (feeling of being kicked in the back of the leg)
• an audible “pop”, swelling/bruising, and severe weakness in the ankle.

Diagnosis and Achilles Heel Strain Treatment for Achilles Tendon Strains

Quick diagnosis and appropriate Achilles heel strain treatment are key to successful recovery from Achilles tendon strains. Let’s look into the methods for diagnosing and treating this condition.

Our JOI Foot and Ankle Specialists will typically diagnose strained Achilles through a detailed physical examination of the affected area, looking for signs of tenderness, swelling, and injury. Often, the Thompson test is a test used for Achilles Tendon ruptures.  In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the heel tendon strain.

Conservative Achilles heel strain treatment options for Achilles tendon strains aim to alleviate pain and inflammation, promote healing, and prevent further injury. This may include rest, ice therapy, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and swelling. Additionally, rehabilitation exercises and such as stretching, strengthening exercises, massage, ultrasound therapy, and electrical stimulation can aid in healing and mobility improvement.

Preventing Achilles Tendon Strains

Preventing heel tendon strains, like the Achilles tendon strain, is possible with the right steps. Here are some helpful tips to help you avoid these injuries:

Firstly, always warm up your muscles and stretch properly before any physical activity. Start with light cardio, such as jogging or cycling, to get your blood circulating, followed by gentle stretches for your calf muscles and strained Achilles.

Secondly, choose the right footwear. Shoes that provide proper arch support and cushioning can make a significant difference. Avoid high heels or shoes with inadequate support, which can stress your Achilles tendon. Consider using orthotic inserts or heel cups for added support.

Remember, if you experience any pain or discomfort in your Achilles tendon, it’s crucial to seek medical attention and avoid further injury.

Rehabilitation and Recovery from Achilles Tendon Injuries

Recovering from Achilles muscle strains requires time, effective rehabilitation, and self-care. Let’s discuss the recovery timeline, rehabilitation strategies, and precautions during the healing process.

The recovery duration varies based on the severity of the strain. While mild strains may heal in a few weeks, severe Achilles tendon strains may need several months. It’s essential to listen to your body and allow adequate healing time to prevent reinjury or chronic issues.

Successful rehabilitation includes physical therapy exercises such as gentle stretching and strengthening, designed to improve flexibility, restore strength, and promote proper healing. Following a rehabilitation program by a trusted physical therapist is crucial for safe and effective recovery from an Achilles tendon strain.

During healing, avoid activities that strain the Achilles tendon, such as running or jumping. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can maintain cardiovascular fitness without aggravating the injury. Applying ice packs, elevating the affected leg, and using compression bandages can aid in reducing swelling and promoting healing.  If you have any questions about physical therapy, please feel free to give us a call at 904-858-7045.

Seeking medical advice immediately is important, as early intervention typically improves the outcome of any intervention.  To learn more about ruptures to the Achilles Tendon, please go to: Achilles Tendon Rupture, Achilles Tendon Injuries or What Are The Signs of a Torn Achilles Tendon.

JOI and JOI Rehab

At JOI Online, we understand the difficulties of recovering from Achilles tendon strains. Our team of foot and ankle professionals can guide you through a comprehensive rehabilitation program tailored to your needs, ensuring a successful recovery. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you on your journey towards a pain-free and active life.  JOI is Northeast Florida’s most respected and experienced orthopedic practice.

JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. Make an appointment by calling (904) JOI-2000 or schedule online.  A new option, you can now schedule and cancel follow-up appointments with your physician at the JOI Patient Portal.