Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment

Treatments for Achilles Tendon Ruptures in Wayne, New Jersey

Achilles tendon ruptures are some of the most common and serious injuries that affect the ankle. If you or a loved one has recently experienced a rupture, seek treatment at High Mountain Orthopedics. Our team of experts is highly trained in musculoskeletal injuries like Achilles tendon ruptures. Visit us in Wayne, New Jersey, so we can examine your injury and plan the appropriate treatment.

What Is an Achilles Tendon Rupture?

The Achilles tendon is a thick cord of connective fibers, linking the back of your calf muscle to the bones of the ankle. It’s one of the largest and strongest tendons in the body and plays a major role in mobility, allowing you to stand on your toes when walking or running. Despite its strength, however, the Achilles tendon is also very vulnerable to injury. Symptoms of a tear or rupture include:

• Severe pain and swelling near the heel
• Inability to push off your injured foot while walking
• Inability to stand on the toes of the injured leg
• The feeling of having been kicked in the calf

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. An Achilles rupture is a serious health condition that can lead to long-term complications, including reduced mobility, chronic ankle pain, and permanent disability.

Major Causes and Risk Factors

Achilles tendon ruptures are usually caused by a sudden increase of stress on the Achilles tendon. In many cases, it’s the result of falling, stepping into a hole, or landing badly after a high jump. It may also occur after athletes increase the intensity of their sports participation. While a rupture can happen to everyone, certain factors can also increase your risk. These include:

• Age: Most Achilles tendon ruptures occur between the ages of 30 and 40, as tendons begin to grow brittle yet individuals remain active.
• Sex: For unknown reasons, Achilles tendon ruptures are most common in men.
• Steroid injections: Steroids are sometimes injected into the ankle joint to reduce pain and inflammation. This can weaken nearby tendons, however, increasing the likelihood of a rupture.
• Obesity: Excess weight can put more strain on the Achilles tendon, making it more likely to snap or rupture when suddenly stressed.

Our Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatments

There are several treatment options available for an Achilles rupture. The best option will depend on your age, activity level, and the severity of your injury. Younger and more active people with severe ruptures often choose more aggressive treatments to get back on their feet sooner. Achilles tendon repair surgery, for instance, can stitch together or reconstruct injured tendons.

Surgery isn’t for everyone, of course. Older patients, those who don’t follow an active lifestyle, and those with milder injuries may choose a more minimally invasive treatment plan. Nonsurgical treatments include rest, ice, crutches, and a walking boot to make sure the tendon heals properly. This is followed by physical therapy to strengthen the ankle and restore its mobility.

Find Relief from Your Ruptured Achilles Tendon Now

Achilles tendon ruptures are serious concerns. Luckily, treatments exist that can restore your comfort and mobility. To learn more, contact High Mountain Orthopedics at our convenient New Jersey location in Wayne, NJ.