The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the lower leg, where it connects the bone of your heel to your calf. Achilles tendon ruptures are common injuries among athletes, causing intense pain and difficulty walking. In many cases, orthopedic surgery is the best treatment option to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon.
Causes of Achilles Tendon Ruptures
The Achilles tendon is an integral part of the normal motion of your foot. Thus, it is often injured during physical activities that stress the foot, ankle, and calf. Sports injuries can occur following a blow, fall, or unnatural twisting motion of the ankle. Increasing the intensity of a sport or activity without proper preparation can also compromise the Achilles tendon. Injuries to this area can also occur due to a slip, fall, or after stepping into a hole.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Ruptures
A rupture of the Achilles tendon may cause an audible snapping or popping sound. In most cases of Achilles tendon rupture, pain follows immediately after the injury. This pain is often sharp, stabbing, and severe, affecting the heel, ankle, and back of your lower leg. Swelling near the heel often occurs, as well as limited mobility in the foot. You may find it impossible to point your toes downward or stand on your toes. This also affects your ability to use your foot to push off the ground in a normal walking motion, causing difficulty moving without assistance. If you suspect you have ruptured your Achilles tendon, visit an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible. Complications from an untreated rupture can have long-term effects.
Able Orthopedic & Sports Medicine proudly serves Forest Hills, Queens, and New York City with top-quality orthopedic and sports medicine. We invite you to call us at (866) 650-8063 to meet our newest physician, Dr. David Toturgul, and find out more about your treatment options following a sports injury. Visit us on the web for more important orthopedic information.
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