Achilles tendon tears are a common injury, particularly among athletes and active individuals. The Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the body, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and is crucial for walking, running, and jumping. When this tendon tears, it can result in significant pain and impairment. At Bondi Podiatry, we are experts in diagnosing and managing Achilles tendon tears (and referring when required) to help our patients return to their active lifestyles.

What Causes Achilles Tears?

Achilles tears typically occur due to a sudden increase in stress on the tendon. Common causes include:

- Intense Physical Activity: Sudden increases in intensity or duration of sports activities.

- Lack of Warm-Up: Inadequate stretching or warm-up before physical activities.

- Aging: Tendons lose flexibility and strength with age, making them more susceptible to injury.

- Chronic Tendonitis: Long-term inflammation and degeneration of the tendon can weaken it, leading to tears.

- Footwear: Wearing improper or worn-out shoes during physical activities.

Symptoms of Achilles Tears

Identifying an Achilles tear involves recognizing several key symptoms:

- Sudden Pain: A sharp pain in the back of the ankle or calf, often described as feeling like a kick or a hit.

- Swelling: Rapid swelling around the heel and ankle.

- Difficulty Moving: Inability to point the foot downward or push off the injured leg when walking.

- Popping Sound: Some people report hearing a popping or snapping sound at the time of injury.

Diagnosing Achilles Tears

At Bondi Podiatry, our diagnostic process includes:

- Physical Examination: Assessing the range of motion, strength, and pain level in the affected leg.

- Imaging Tests: Using ultrasound or MRI to confirm the extent of the tear and to plan the appropriate treatment.

Management and Treatment Options

Effective management of Achilles tears involves a combination of non-surgical and surgical treatments tailored to the severity of the injury and the patient’s lifestyle. Here are the main treatment options:

Non-Surgical Treatments

1. Rest and Immobilization

- Casting or Bracing: Immobilizing the foot and ankle with a cast or brace to allow the tendon to heal naturally.

- Benefits: Non-invasive and avoids surgical risks.

- Risks: Longer recovery time and higher risk of re-rupture compared to surgical repair.

2. Physical Therapy

- Rehabilitation Exercises: Gradual stretching and strengthening exercises to restore flexibility and strength.

- Benefits: Helps improve functionality and prevent future injuries.

- Risks: Requires patient compliance and may be less effective for severe tears.

3. Heel Lifts

- Orthotic Devices: Placing heel lifts in shoes to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon during recovery.

- Benefits: Provides additional support and reduces pain.

- Risks: Temporary measure; not a permanent solution.

Surgical Treatments

For severe Achilles tears, surgical intervention might be necessary, our podiatrists will refer you to a surgeon for this treatment:

1. Open Surgery

- Procedure: The surgeon makes an incision in the back of the ankle and stitches the torn tendon ends together.

- Benefits: Higher success rate and lower re-rupture rate compared to non-surgical methods.

- Risks: Surgical complications such as infection, nerve damage, or scarring.

2. Minimally Invasive Surgery

- Procedure: Smaller incisions are made, and the tendon is stitched together using special instruments.

- Benefits: Reduced recovery time, less scarring, and lower risk of complications.

- Risks: Requires specialized skills and may not be suitable for all patients.

Post-Treatment Rehabilitation

Regardless of the treatment chosen, rehabilitation is crucial for a full recovery:

1. Gradual Weight-Bearing

- Progression: Slowly increasing the amount of weight placed on the injured leg to rebuild strength.

- Benefits: Prevents re-injury and promotes natural healing.

- Risks: Premature weight-bearing can cause re-rupture or delay healing.

2. Strengthening Exercises

- Focus Areas: Strengthening the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon to restore normal function.

- Benefits: Improves stability and prevents future injuries.

- Risks: Overexertion can lead to further injury.

3. Flexibility Training

- Techniques: Stretching exercises to improve the range of motion and reduce stiffness.

- Benefits: Enhances mobility and reduces the risk of chronic pain.

- Risks: Must be performed correctly to avoid overstretching.

Prevention Tips

Preventing Achilles tears involves taking several proactive steps:

- Proper Footwear: Wearing supportive and appropriate shoes for physical activities.

- Gradual Increase in Activity: Slowly increasing the intensity and duration of exercise to avoid overloading the tendon.

- Regular Stretching: Incorporating calf and Achilles tendon stretches into your routine to maintain flexibility.

- Strength Training: Regular exercises to strengthen the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.

Conclusion

Achilles tendon tears are a serious injury that requires prompt and effective management. At Bondi Podiatry, we are committed to providing comprehensive care tailored to the individual needs of our patients. Whether through non-surgical treatments, referral for surgical intervention, or personalized rehabilitation programs, our goal is to help you return to your active lifestyle safely and efficiently.

If you suspect you have an Achilles tendon tear or are experiencing symptoms, contact Bondi Podiatry today to schedule an appointment with our experienced team. Your foot health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.