Achilles Ruptures
Traumatic Orthopaedic Injuries - Soft Tissue And Ligament Injuries: Achilles Ruptures
Achilles tendon ruptures are significant injuries involving a tear in the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon is essential for walking, running, and jumping, as it allows the foot to push off the ground. Ruptures typically occur during high-impact activities or sudden movements and can significantly impact mobility and daily activities. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment may help restore tendon function and improve recovery outcomes.
What Is An Achilles Rupture?
An Achilles rupture occurs when the tendon partially or completely tears, often during a sudden or forceful movement. These ruptures can be classified as:
- Partial Ruptures: The tendon is not fully torn but may still cause significant pain and weakness.
- Complete Ruptures: The tendon is fully torn, often resulting in a loss of function and strength in the affected leg.
Achilles ruptures are most common in active individuals, particularly men aged 30 to 50, and may require medical intervention to restore normal function.
Causes Of Achilles Ruptures
Achilles ruptures often occur due to a sudden increase in stress or tension on the tendon. Common causes include:
- Sudden Movements: Quick changes in direction, jumping, or sprinting.
- Sports Injuries: High-impact sports such as basketball, tennis, or football.
- Falls: Landing awkwardly on the foot or overstretching the tendon.
- Overuse: Repetitive strain from prolonged activities or inadequate rest periods.
Symptoms Of Achilles Ruptures
Symptoms of an Achilles rupture can vary depending on the severity of the tear but commonly include:
- A sudden, sharp pain in the back of the ankle or calf, often described as feeling like a “kick” or “snap.”
- Swelling and tenderness around the Achilles tendon.
- Difficulty walking or pushing off the affected foot.
- Weakness or loss of strength in the lower leg.
- A visible gap or indentation in the tendon, particularly in complete ruptures.
- A popping or snapping sound at the time of injury.
If these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Risk Factors For Achilles Ruptures
Several factors may increase the likelihood of an Achilles rupture, including:
- Age: The risk increases with age, particularly in individuals over 30.
- Gender: Men are more likely to sustain an Achilles rupture than women.
- Sports Participation: Activities involving sudden starts, stops, or jumps.
- Previous Tendon Injuries: A history of Achilles tendinitis or other tendon issues.
- Inadequate Warm-Up: Not warming up before physical activity can increase the risk of injury.
- Medications: Certain antibiotics or corticosteroids may weaken the tendon.
Treatment Options For Achilles Ruptures
Treatment for Achilles ruptures focuses on relieving pain, restoring tendon function, and improving mobility. Options include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Immobilisation: Using a cast, boot, or brace to stabilise the ankle and allow the tendon to heal.
- Pain Management: Medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physiotherapy: Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the tendon and surrounding muscles, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery may be recommended for complete ruptures or when non-surgical treatments are unlikely to restore full function:
- Open Repair: Reattaching the torn ends of the tendon through a surgical incision.
- Minimally Invasive Repair: Using smaller incisions to reduce scarring and recovery time.
- Augmentation: Reinforcing the tendon with grafts or additional tissue in severe cases.
Dr Scott Tulloch will evaluate the severity of the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on the patient’s activity level, overall health, and long-term goals.
When Should You Seek Help For An Achilles Rupture?
You should consider seeking medical advice if:
- You experience sudden pain or a snapping sensation in the back of your ankle or calf.
- You are unable to walk, push off, or bear weight on the affected foot.
- Swelling or tenderness persists despite rest and home care.
- You notice weakness or instability in the ankle.
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to promoting proper healing and minimising the risk of long-term complications, such as chronic weakness or tendon re-rupture.
If you would like to learn more about Achilles ruptures or discuss your treatment options, book an appointment with Dr Scott Tulloch at the Victorian Orthopaedic Group.
