Achilles Tendon Rupture
Immediate evaluation is recommended. Crutches may be needed to help walking. A cast may be necessary for a small, partial tear. The cast will keep the ankle from moving.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis can develop into a chronic problem if treatment is not initiated in a timely manner. Over time, inflammation can lead to degenerative changes within the tendon and a higher chance of Achilles tendon rupture. Therefore, it is important to initiate treatment for symptoms of Achilles tendonitis.
The best treatment of Achilles tendonitis is prevention. Stretching the Achilles tendon before exercise, even at the start of the day, will help to maintain ankle flexibility. Problems with foot mechanics can also lead to Achilles tendonitis. This can often be treated with devices inserted into the shoes such as heel cups, arch supports, and custom orthotics.
The treatments of Achilles tendonitis include:
- Rest - Resting the painful Achilles tendon will allow the inflammation to subside and allow for healing. A period of rest after the onset of symptoms is important in controlling Achilles tendonitis.
- Immobilization - In patients who have more significant symptoms, a period of immobilization can help. Either a removable walking boot or a cast can allow the inflamed tendon to cool down quickly.
- Heel Wedge - A heel wedge can be inserted into the shoe to minimize the stress on the Achilles tendon. These can be placed in both athletic and work shoes.
- Ice - Applying ice to the area of inflammation can help stimulate blood flow to the area and relieve the pain associated with inflammation. Apply ice several times a day, including after exercise.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications - The pain and swelling most commonly associated with Achilles tendonitis can be improved with non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) which include Celebrex®, Advil®, Motrin®, Naprosyn®. Be sure to consult your physician before starting any medications.
- Physical therapy - Physical therapists can help formulate a stretching and rehabilitation program to improve flexibility of the Achilles tendon.
- Cortisone injections - Cortisone injectionsshould not be used for Achilles tendonitis. Studies have shown an increased incidence of Achilles tendon rupture after cortisone injections.
FAQs
If the pain continues or worsens, you may want to talk with your primary care provider or a foot and ankle specialist who can address both orthopedic and podiatry issues. You may need imaging tests, including X-ray, ultrasound or MRI, to better diagnose the injury to the tendon.
What is the fastest way to heal an Achilles tendon? ›
Self care
- Rest. You may need to avoid exercise for several days or switch to an activity that doesn't strain the Achilles tendon, such as swimming. ...
- Ice. To decrease pain or swelling, apply an ice pack to the tendon for about 15 minutes after exercising or when you experience pain.
- Compression. ...
- Elevation.
Toe stretch
- Sit in a chair, and extend your affected leg so that your heel is on the floor.
- With your hand, reach down and pull your big toe up and back. Pull toward your ankle and away from the floor.
- Hold the position for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
- Repeat 2 to 4 times a session, several times a day.
If the pain continues or worsens, you may want to talk with your primary care provider or a foot and ankle specialist who can address both orthopedic and podiatry issues. You may need imaging tests, including X-ray, ultrasound or MRI, to better diagnose the injury to the tendon.
Does a walking boot help Achilles tendonitis? ›
A walking boot may help you to keep your foot immobile, allowing the Achilles tendon time to heal. Doctors may recommend immobilization for two or three weeks after an Achilles tendinitis diagnosis.
Is walking ok for Achilles tendonitis? ›
To allow your tendon to heal, you should stop or decrease activities that cause pain, such as running or jumping. Do activities that do not strain the tendon, such as swimming or cycling. When walking or running, choose soft, smooth surfaces. Avoid hills.
What worsens Achilles tendonitis? ›
This constant mechanical stress on the heel and tendon can cause inflammation, pain and swelling of the tendon. Being overweight can make the problem worse. footwear – wearing shoes with minimal support while walking or running can increase the risk, as can wearing high heels.
Should I stretch my Achilles tendon if it hurts? ›
Should you stretch your calf muscles and Achilles tendon? If you are injury-free, there's no reason to avoid calf and Achilles stretches. However, you should avoid overstretching and don't stretch if you feel Achilles pain.
What is the best position to sleep in with Achilles tendonitis? ›
The other option is to move to the bottom of the bed where possible and hang the leg over the side of the bed. People utilising this method of foot position change have generally reported significant improvement in pain within the first 2 weeks, as the calf tightness markedly reduces.
How do I get my Achilles tendonitis to stop hurting? ›
Nonsurgical Achilles tendinitis treatments include the RICE method: Rest: Stop doing activities that stress your tendon. Switch to low-impact activities, such as swimming, that put less stress on your Achilles tendon. Ice: Put ice on your tendon for up to 20 minutes, as needed throughout the day.
Sometimes retrocalcaneal bursitis may be mistaken for Achilles tendinitis. Risks for this condition include: Starting a very intense workout schedule. Suddenly increasing activity level without the right conditioning.
Does Achilles tendonitis ever go away? ›
It is important to remember that it may take at least two to three months for the pain of Achilles tendonitis to go away. If your pain does not improve, you may need surgery to remove inflamed tissue and abnormal areas of the tendon. If there is a bone spur irritating the tendon, surgery can be used to remove the spur.
What shoes should you not wear with Achilles tendonitis? ›
As previously discussed, you'll need to skip anything with high heels. However, choosing shoes that are too flat can also aggravate painful foot conditions. Shoes with a thin, flat surface that offers no arch support or shock absorption can also be painful.
Does walking barefoot help Achilles tendonitis? ›
In addition, the patient may be asked to avoid barefoot walking or walking in low-heeled shoes. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve) may also be prescribed to calm the inflammatory process in the tendon.
What is the best cream for Achilles tendonitis? ›
Pain relief – over-the-counter oral medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) or topical medications like diclofenac (Voltaren) cream can help relieve pain and inflammation associated with Achilles tendonitis.
What causes Achilles tendonitis to flare up? ›
Achilles tendinitis most commonly occurs in runners who have suddenly increased the intensity or duration of their runs. It's also common in middle-aged people who play sports, such as tennis or basketball, only on the weekends.
