The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone. Although it is very strong, it can tear off with sudden, forceful movements. Achilles tendon tears result in pain and weakness, making it difficult to walk.
The Achilles tendon transmits force from the calf muscles, which allow the foot to push off from the ground when walking, running, and jumping. Strain to the Achilles tendon can cause it to tear. An Achilles tendon tear is most likely to occur in the middle of the tendon and is referred to as a midsubstance Achilles rupture.
Treatment for an Achilles tendon tear will depend on the size of the tear and the patient’s age and activity level. Some tears can be treated with a brace and physical therapy, while many require surgery to repair the torn Achilles tendon.
There are different ways to repair a torn Achilles tendon. It is either stitched back together or pulled together with sutures that are secured to the heel bone with anchors.
Traditional surgery for Achilles tendon repair involves an open incision made along the back of the ankle. The newest technology allows surgeons to use smaller incisions and perform most of the surgery underneath the skin.
Want to dive deeper? Take a look at some of the bonus educational videos to sharpen your understanding of Achilles tendon tears.
