The Achilles Tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon can be damaged or injured in several ways and the severity of the injury can vary and range from inflammation to a tear.
In most cases, the Achilles Tendon is damaged during sports or activity. A change in the frequency or duration of running or sports can lead to Achilles Tendonitis. In other instances, a sudden change in direction with a planted foot or blow to the ankle can cause a tear in the Achilles Tendon.
The difference between an Achilles Tendon Tear and Achilles Tendonitis are:
Achilles Tendon Tear. This is classified as damage to the tendon itself and can be either partial tears or complete tears. Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Tear can include:
Achilles Tendonitis. This is classified as inflammation of the Achilles Tendon but the tendon is still fully intact. Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis include:
At OrthoNeuro, our Board Certified Foot and Ankle Specialists have helped thousands of patients with Achilles Tendon injuries live active and healthy lives using the latest non-surgical and surgical procedures.
An Achilles Tendon Tear is considered a much more severe injury than Achilles Tendonitis and therefore the treatment options can vary based on the diagnosis.
At OrthoNeuro, the treatment options for Achilles Tendon Tears are based on the severity of the damage to the tendon. In the instance of a partial tendon tear, options include:
If the Achilles Tendon is torn more than 50% of the way through the tendon or is completely torn (known as an Achilles Rupture), surgery may be recommended to repair the tendon. At OrthoNeuro, Achilles Tendon Repair is performed as an outpatient procedure so that you are able to return home the same day as your procedure.
During an Achilles Tendon Repair:
Once the incision is closed, the foot may be placed in a cast or boot and Physical Therapy is started within days following surgery to restore strength and mobility.
At OrthoNeuro, the treatments for Achilles Tendonitis are typically non-surgical and can include:
Patients who are experiencing the symptoms of an Achilles injury should not delay a diagnosis. The decision of what treatments are best for you will be determined by what you and your OrthoNeuro Specialist feel is best.
