Achilles Tendon Facts
Injuries to the Achilles Tendon
The largest tendon is the Achilles tendon. It connects the calcaneous (heel bone) to the muscles in the back of the calf. This tendon must be able to tolerate a lot of force during exercises, sports and pivoting activities.
Two types of injury are quite common for the Achilles tendon:
1. Achilles Tendonitis is inflammation caused by overuse.
2. The Achilles tendon is sometimes torn.
Achilles Tendonitis Information
Achilles tendonitis is caused by a sudden increase in the intensity of activity to which the Achilles tendon is subjected. So, for example, if you suddenly change the type of training you are doing or greatly increase the intensity of your existing training, you are likely to experience Achilles tendonitis. This is why you must take great care when adding very strenuous exercise to your routine or when returning to exercise after an extended break.
You may experience Achilles tendonitis as mild pain after exercise that worsens as time passes. Several hours after completing your exercise routine, the pain may become severe. After rest, you may feel stiffness, tenderness, and swelling. Movement may improve these symptoms.
If the Achilles tendon is torn, it may be possible to repair it surgically. Tears and toughened, fibrous tissues may be removed with surgery. Rehabilitation to prevent weakness in the ankle will play a part in recovery.
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Specifics About Achilles Tendon Surgery
When you engage in strenuous activity, you are more likely to tear your Achilles tendon. If this happens, you may hear a cracking or popping sound. An Achilles tendon tear can be partial or complete. The tendon usually tears just above the calcaneous.
You may be unable to walk normally or bend your foot downward if you have ruptured the Achilles tendon. You are sure to feel a great deal of pain and experience swelling around your heel.
A complete rupture is usually treated with surgery. After surgery, your doctor will have you wear a walking boot or a cast to stabilize your ankle. You will need to do this for about three months.
Torn ligaments can be treated non-surgically by using a below-knee cast; however, this is not as effective as surgical treatment. It takes longer, and the healing is not as complete. You are more likely to have problems in the future when you allow the tendon to heal naturally.
Surgery gives you a better chance to recover fully. For this reason, people who are serious about sports and physical fitness usually opt for surgery. It will allow them to get back into the game and fully participate after injuring the Achilles tendon.
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