7 Achilles Injuries You Need to Know About
The Achilles tendon is that powerful cord connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. But important as it is for basic movements such as walking, running, and jumping, this essential tendon is also vulnerable to ailments ranging from tendonitis to severe ruptures.
Understanding the nuances of Achilles injuries can help you recognize symptoms, seek appropriate treatment, and navigate the road to recovery with us at My Chicago Foot Expert.
Achilles Tendonitis vs. Rupture
Tendonitis and Tendon rupture: most people think they’re the same, but they are actually two distinct conditions.
Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury that causes inflammation of the tendon. It often develops gradually and is felt with pain, stiffness, and swelling along the back of the heel. Repetitive strain from movement, improper footwear, and tight calf muscles are classic risk factors.
Achilles tendon rupture, however, is a complete or partial tear of the tendon. Unlike with overuse, ruptures are sudden, often giving a popping sensation followed by immediate pain. Untreated tendonitis and forceful movements can lead to this more severe tear.
Other Achilles Injuries
While ruptures and inflammation paint Achilles complications with a broad-stroke brush, there are distinct Achilles phenomena that can also occur, such as:
- Achilles tendinosis: This is chronic degeneration of the tendon, often without significant inflammation, that causes persistent pain and stiffness.
- Insertional Achilles tendonitis: This involves inflammation at the point where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. It can be associated with bone spurs.
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac located between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone.
- Achilles tendon avulsion: When there’s a complete detachment of the tendon from the heel bone (surgery necessary).
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation often involves physical therapy, focusing on exercises to strengthen and stretch the calf muscles. Medications, such as pain relievers or anti-inflammatories, can help manage symptom flares (see your provider) throughout therapy. In some cases, particularly with ruptures or complex injuries, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendon or address structural issues.
Contact the experienced team at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to book an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood location today.
