Achilles Tendon Rupture
Tear of the tendon at that back of the heel. Can be partial or complete.
How is it caused?
What are the symptoms?
Often patients report that they were playing sport and thought they had been struck on the back of the ankle and in some cases, they may hear a snap or a crack and may experience pain. Usually they are unable to continue playing because the leg suddenly becomes weak and they lose their ability to push off. A gap may be felt between the two ends of the tendon.
If left untreated, the tendon can heal at the wrong length, so that the calf muscle loses power and no longer works effectively. This can result in a limp in some patients, which can interfere with work or prevent return to play.
How is it diagnosed?
A careful history and examination should give the diagnosis. Unfortunately, Achilles tendon ruptures are still missed and therefore not properly managed in some patients.
Both Ultrasound and MRI can give valuable information regarding the size of the gap and location of the tear.
How is it treated?
What can I do?
In this case, there are no recommended self-help strategies you can adopt, and the best action is to contact an orthopedic specialist as soon as possible.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Rehabilitation Programme – Depending on how quickly you enter treatment and the size of the gap, some Achilles tendon ruptures can be managed conservatively. The critical issue is whether or not the two ends of the tendon can be brought together to allow them to knit together. If this is the case, and you can be enrolled in a specific targeted rehabilitation programme, the tendon can fully recover.
Surgical Options
Achilles Tendon Rupture Surgery
Our surgeons use techniques for this procedure such as PARS or Achillon systems, both of which allow access to both end of the ruptured tendon through small incisions and it can then be reattached.
When can I expect to be back to normal after surgery?
After either form of Achilles tendon rupture repair, expect to wear a cast and/or walking boot for a total of 6 to 12 weeks. Immediately after surgery, your foot will be immobilised with your toe pointed. After this, you will undergo physiotherapy to help strengthen the tendon and return to full mobility.
