Achilles Tendon Problems

What is the Achilles Tendon?

A tendon is a cord of flexible, thick collagen tissues which joins a muscle to a bone. The Achilles tendon joins the calf muscle to the heel bone on the posterior side of the leg and helps in mobility by lifting the heel off a surface. A sudden force on the foot or ankle can cause Achilles tendon to break or tear causing a rupture.

Achilles tendon rupture:

The Achilles tendon is vulnerable to rupture injuries more than any other tendon in muscles. The tendon can break due to intense stress by physical activities that require rapid increase in speed, such as excessive running or jumping.

Achilles tendon causes:

Extra bone growth
Tight calf muscles
Sudden increase in a repetitive activity
Wearing high heels
Overuse

Achilles tendon rupture symptoms:

A sudden snap and severe pain at the back of the ankle or calf felt like being hit, kicked or cut.
Swelling, stiffness, and painful bruising.
Inability to stand on tiptoe and pushing off for movement.

Diagnosing achilles tendon rupture:

Diagnosis can usually be made during a physical exam. Our podiatrist will examine your lower leg for swelling and may be able to feel a gap in your tendon if it has torn completely. A common test of squeezing your calf muscles to see if your foot flexes will determine if you have ruptured your Achilles. An ultrasound or MRI may be needed to determine the extent of the rupture.