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What is the Achilles tendon?
The fibrous connective tissue that connects muscles to bones in our body and forms the basis of the musculoskeletal system is called a “tendon.” The strongest and largest of these tendons is the Achilles tendon. This Achilles tendon, which connects the heel bone to the calf muscles, takes its name from the legendary warrior Achilles from Greek mythology. According to legend, Achilles’ only weak spot was his heel, and it is said that he died from an arrow hit at this spot. Although it is a mythological story, this legend clearly shows the importance of the Achilles tendon and its critical position in the body.
What is the Achilles tendon needed for?
The Achilles tendon is very important for mobility. Its main functions include:
- Moving the foot downwards when walking, running, and going up and down stairs means returning it to the correct position.
- Raising the toes when standing up and rising on the heel.
- It also plays an important role in stabilizing the ankle. It plays an important role in maintaining the balance of the body.
How to tear the Achilles tendon?
The Achilles tendon is one of the strongest tendons in our body. Although it is strong, it can tear under extreme stress and sudden movements. This condition can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling and strain. Although Achilles tendon rupture is common in athletes and active people, it can actually occur in any age and gender for different reasons.
The causes of Achilles tendon rupture can be listed as follows:
- Overexertion: Exercising while under-rested or tired can lead to overexertion and rupture of the Achilles tendon.
- Sudden movements: Particularly sudden jumping or twisting movements can suddenly stress the Achilles tendon and cause it to rupture.
- Inadequate warm-up and cool-down: Neglecting warm-up and cool-down exercises before and after exercise increases the risk of Achilles tendon injury.
- Wrong shoe choice: Wearing shoes that are not suitable for the sport and foot structure can cause damage to the Achilles tendon.
- Weak muscles: Weak calf muscles can put more strain on the Achilles tendon and cause a tear.
- Chronic diseases: Chronic diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can weaken the Achilles tendon and increase the risk of rupture.
- Age: As we age, the Achilles tendon becomes weaker and the risk of a tear increases.
- Some medications: Some medications such as cortisone can weaken the Achilles tendon.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture?
The symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury can vary depending on the situation. While the pain is slow and constant due to weakened tendons, it can be sharp and sudden as a result of a tendon rupture.
– Sudden stabbing pain: When there is a sudden rupture in the Achilles tendon, a stabbing pain is felt in the heel or calf. This pain can be so severe that the person can fall to the ground.
– Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising in the area is common after an injury. Bruising can extend along the heel and calf.
– Strain while walking or running: An Achilles tendon injury can make walking and running difficult. There may be greater difficulty, especially when going up and down stairs or walking downhill.
– Difficulty lifting the toes: The Achilles tendon is responsible for lifting the toes. Due to an injury, this movement can become difficult or impossible.
– Weakness or imbalance in the heel: When the Achilles tendon weakens or tears, instability and weakness can be felt in the heel, increasing the risk of falling.
– Rare symptoms: In some rare cases, an Achilles tendon injury may not cause any symptoms. This condition can occur when the tendon has a small tear or inflammation.
How is an Achilles tendon injury diagnosed?
Depending on the severity of the pain and other symptoms resulting from an Achilles tendon tear, you may need to visit an orthopedic clinic or an orthopedic surgeon. The diagnostic methods we use at MSM Clinic are as follows:
- Medical examination: Swelling, edema and tenderness of the calf muscles are checked. It is checked whether there is a gap in the tendon by tightening the patient’s calf muscles and observing whether the foot contracts passively.
- Ultrasound: The location of the tear and the degree of damage to the tendon are determined.
- MRI: Used for more detailed imaging. This helps determine where the tear is and whether the tendon is partially or completely damaged and a treatment plan can be made accordingly.
How is an Achilles tendon rupture treated?
There are two main treatment methods for Achilles tendon injuries: conservative treatment and surgical treatment. The method chosen at MSM Clinic depends on the patient’s age, activity level, weight and severity of the injury.
Conservative treatment: Used to relieve pain and return to daily activities as soon as possible. Applications are; cold compresses, painkillers, specially tailored joint movement and muscle strengthening exercises and rehabilitation. Cortisone, PRP and collagen applications can be used together. The decision depends on the tendon quality and the patient’s activity level.
Surgical treatment: Amateur or professional athletes, people with active lifestyles and young adults prefer this treatment. It is a preferred method to shorten the healing process and restore athletic performance. Depending on the type of injury, different operations can be performed.
Rehabilitation is the most recommended treatment method for every patient, whether surgery or not. Leg muscle and Achilles tendon exercises are performed under the supervision of our specialist. The goal is to ensure that the patient returns to his previous condition within 4-6 months.
