Achilles Tendonitis / Tear
The Achilles tendon is the large tendon on the back of the ankle and connects the calf muscle to the heel.
Achilles Tendonitis is caused by irritation of this area by overuse and is commonly found in runners.
Symptoms could be gradual pain over a period of days or weeks. Pain begins during exercise but will fade as the exercise progresses. The area will also be tender to the touch. If not treated, Achilles tendonitis may become chronic and pain will be constant throughout exercise and daily activities.
Treatment
Rest is very important. Avoid activity that causes pain for several weeks with a gradual return to normal activity. Deep friction massage is a very successful treatment.
Ice will also help bring down inflammation in the area and reduce swelling.
Consult your physician before using any type of anti-inflammatory medication.
Working with a physical therapist to work on a strengthening and stretching routine will also be very helpful in preventing this from happening again.
Achilles Tear will often require surgery which will often consist of making small incision on the back of the leg and sewing the tendon back together.
After surgery the patient will be put in a cast or wear some type of brace for 6 to twelve weeks.
In that time you will lose a great deal of range of motion in the ankle and strength and physical therapy will be required to make a full recovery.
Achilles Tendonitis is caused by irritation of this area by overuse and is commonly found in runners.
Symptoms could be gradual pain over a period of days or weeks. Pain begins during exercise but will fade as the exercise progresses. The area will also be tender to the touch. If not treated, Achilles tendonitis may become chronic and pain will be constant throughout exercise and daily activities.
Treatment
Rest is very important. Avoid activity that causes pain for several weeks with a gradual return to normal activity. Deep friction massage is a very successful treatment.
Ice will also help bring down inflammation in the area and reduce swelling.
Consult your physician before using any type of anti-inflammatory medication.
Working with a physical therapist to work on a strengthening and stretching routine will also be very helpful in preventing this from happening again.
Achilles Tear will often require surgery which will often consist of making small incision on the back of the leg and sewing the tendon back together.
After surgery the patient will be put in a cast or wear some type of brace for 6 to twelve weeks.
In that time you will lose a great deal of range of motion in the ankle and strength and physical therapy will be required to make a full recovery.
