According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the Achilles tendon is the longest tendon in the human body and can withstand forces of more than 1,000 lbs. The most common injuries to the Achilles tendon are Achilles tendinitis and an Achilles rupture. Treatments are based on the severity of the injury and can range from rest to surgery.
Rest
Resting the Achilles tendon is the first option of treatment if the injury is mild, such as soreness or minor tendinitis. When resting, exercise and other physical activities should be avoided for about a week, according to the AAOS. In some cases, switching exercises or physical activities such as running to swimming may allow the Achilles tendon to recover without having to stop all activities.
Support Devices
Support devices can limit or immobilize the tendon to allow the Achilles tendon to heal. A heel pad or shoe insert can take the stress off the Achilles tendon and help support the muscle. Bandages can also be used to restrict the motion of the tendon. Casts and walking boots are used for long-term healing of the tendon when there's a slight tear or severe tendinitis.
Surgery
According to the Mayo Clinic, surgery is the most common form of treatment for a ruptured Achilles tendon. The procedure involves making an incision In the back of the leg and stitching the torn segments of the tendon. In some cases, tendons from other parts of the body may be used to replace the damaged portions of the Achilles tendon. According to the AAOS, surgery may be used to treat Achilles tendinitis if the tendon's protective sheath becomes thick and fibrous. The procedure involves removing portions of the fibrous tissue.
Other Treatments
According to the AAOS, muscular exercises, massages and stretches may be used to strengthen muscles in the front of the leg to relieve stress on the tendon. Anti-inflammatory medications may be used to control and relieve inflammation to the tendon that can be caused by tendinitis.
