What Are The Signs of a Torn Achilles Tendon?

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Signs of a torn Achilles tendon- JOI explains.What are the signs of a torn Achilles Tendon?

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The quick answer is the Achilles tendon is the largest tendon present in the body and runs from the heel to the middle of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscle to the heel bone. These structures combine to allow the ankle to perform a plantar flexion, or pointing your foot away from you. 

To learn more about an Achilles Tendon Rupture, please watch this video by Dr. Turner Vosseller. 

What are the causes of an Achilles Tendon rupture?

The Achilles tendon is prone to injury due to the high stress placed on it. Certain conditions, such as age and disuse, can increase the risk of injury. The effect of aging can weaken the tendon, as well as chronic tendinopathy from disuse or poor gastroc-soleus muscle length. A torn Achilles tendon is an injury that can result from a weakened state, and can be a partial or full tear (most common).  An MRI is used to determine the extent of the tear to the tendon. 

Achilles Tendon, Calf Muscles and Bones of the lower legAnatomy of the lower leg and Achilles Tendon

Common causes are:

  • a sudden change of direction requiring a push off
  • landing from a jump
  • sport related

What are the signs and symptoms of a torn Achilles tendon?

The quick answer is the most common signs and symptoms of a torn Achilles tendon include: 

  • a sudden onset of severe sharp pain, typically described as being kicked in the back of the leg
  • an audible “pop” 
  • swelling
  • bruising
  • severe weakness in the ankle
  • inability to weight bear or walk 

  Please read these related articles: Achilles Tendon Rupture and How to Stretch Your Achilles Tendon.

Achilles Tendon Treatment

The initial treatment for a rupture to the Achilles Tendon is to provide ice and immobilization.  Immobilization is provided by using a walking boot and crutches for ambulation.  The diagnosis of a rupture is determined by an examination from an orthopedic physician and an MRI.  After this exam, your physician would determine if surgery is the best option for you.  Conservative treatment is a period of immobilization and rehab. 

Achilles Tendon Rupture or TearAchilles Tendon Injuries

Physical Therapy for a Torn Achilles Tendon

The JOI Rehab Clinicians have worked with our Team of Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeons to develop specific protocols for all of the injuries to the Achilles Tendon.  The protocol for after a Achilles Tendon repair is quite extensive.  Our goal is to provide all of our patients with the best outcome.  We want to return you to doing the activities and sports that you love. 

JOI Physicians Offer ASAP Injury Service

If you think you have torn your Achilles Tendon, an Orthopedic Specialist for the Foot and Ankle at the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute can help!  JOI has the most experienced team of orthopedic surgeons who specialize in the treatment of Achilles Tendon injuries.  Please call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online or click below.  JOI, is Where The Pro’s Go!

To schedule for physical therapy at JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.

Related Videos: Dr. Yorio explains a torn Achilles Tendon in this Video and this video by Dr. Carrasquillo. 

By: Jon Stiffler PTA

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