A common injury among athletes, especially those who engage in sprinting or jumping, is the rupture of the Achilles tendon. It is a foot and ankle disorder brought on by a weaker section of the body making repeated attempts. However, there are treatments that work and can aid in its recovery.
Achilles tendon rupture signs and symptoms
One of the strongest and thickest tendons in the body, the Achilles tendon joins the calf with the heel. It is the one that enables foot bending. Inflammation and calcification make the Achilles tendon fragile, and it can rupture if the calf muscle is overextended.
One of the symptoms that come before an Achilles tendon rupture is tendinitis. Look for discomfort or swelling when you feel the back of your ankle to determine if you have Achilles tendonitis. Additionally, it could make moving stiff and difficult, and the discomfort might get worse when you're moving around.
An Achilles tendon rupture can cause stabbing pain, leg swelling, and difficulty walking. Movements in the calf and heel are felt to be painful, and depending on whether the tendon is partially or completely ripped, these movements are therefore more or less achievable.
Be aware that an ultrasound scan will be necessary to determine the best course of treatment for the tendon's recovery and to determine whether it has been wounded or torn.
Common reasons
The Achilles tendon rupture is more frequent in runners and jumpers than it is in people with chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis. It is true that vigorous and repetitive movement of the heel and ankle can weaken and tear the tendon.
Before a sporting activity, warm-up exercises allow the tendons and muscles to flex and stretch, preparing them to withstand an intense exertion. After the exercise session, a stretching session should be planned as well. If necessary, you can reduce swelling and discomfort in your muscles by applying a cold compress.
A professional evaluation of your running form is a smart idea. This will prevent you from adhering with a plan that may endanger your long-term wellbeing.
In order to stop tendons from wearing out, a podiatrist can determine if your feet and ankles are properly aligned and, if necessary, prescribe exercises to improve your alignment.
Finally, early tendon damage may also result from the sports shoes you choose. Try them on before you buy them and consider how much work you will need to do in relation to your weight and shoe size.
It is important to take care of the comfortable shoes you wear at home. We recommend DrLuigi medical shoes.
The best method for healing the Achilles tendon
There are many techniques to cure a torn Achilles tendon. Depending on the extent of the injury, the patient could need to wear a cast or splint, or an orthopedist might advise and perform surgery.
When the foot is in a cast, the foot is initially positioned in a way that promotes healing and stops the tendon from expanding. The foot is then gradually returned to its physiological position, allowing the tendon to regain its length and flexibility.
There are two choices for surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon. The first option, open surgery, is typically performed on healthy patients with a low risk of problems. The second option, tendon restoration with minor incisions surrounding it, is less invasive. This procedure requires a somewhat longer period of immobilization even though it lessens the risk of infection.
A podiatric follow-up is required, especially if you want to safely resume your regular sporting activities. Remission takes many months in all situations.
N.D.
26.10.2022.