The Achilles tendon is a large band of connective tissue that connects several muscles in the back of the calf to the foot. This tendon allows for the muscle movements that allow the foot to be flexed downward. Injuries to the Achilles tendon can cause significant ankle pain and discomfort and are common among athletes.
Types
There are several kinds of injuries that can occur to the Achilles tendon, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases. The most common type of Achilles tendon injury is tendinitis, which is marked by inflammation of the tendon. As tendinitis gets worse it can lead to tendonosis, FootHealthFacts.org explains, which is marked by the development of small tears in the tendon. In extreme cases the tendon itself can rupture.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of an Achilles tendon injury is pain, according to FootHealthFacts.org. The pain will typically localize to the tendon itself and may be most severe where the tendon attaches to bone. The tendon may be tender or very painful when squeezed and can develop nodules over time. Rupture of the tendon, according to the Mayo Clinic, can lead to an inability to bend the injured foot downward or stand on tiptoes on that foot.
Causes
There are a number of activities that can lead to injury to the Achilles tendon, the "Journal of the American Medical Association" explains. Sports such as basketball, football and hockey can lead to Achilles tendon injuries. The tendon can also be injured as a result of not properly warming up before beginning strenuous activity or from adding activities such as running or stair-climbing to an exercise routine. The Achilles tendon can also become damaged if the foot rolls inward while running or as a result of wearing high heels.
Diagnosis
An injury of the Achilles tendon can usually be diagnosed in a thorough physical exam, FootHealthFacts.org notes. The health of the tendon and the range of motion that is possible in the ankle joint can also be assessed. The extent of the tendon injury can be measured using X-rays or an MRI scan, which allows a radiologist to visualize the tendon.
Treatment
Ice and rest, FootHealthFacts.org explains, are the two main treatments for an injured Achilles tendon. Patients can also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, to help relieve pain and reduce swelling and inflammation. Patients can also wear special orthotic braces or night splints to help stretch the tendon. Physical therapy can also be used to strengthen the tendon. If the tendon is ruptured, patients can have the torn tendon sewn back together.
