Signs of an Achilles Tendon Rupture

As the biggest tendon in your body, your Achilles tendon does a lot. As you move throughout your day, it helps you flex your foot and makes it possible for you to walk, run, and jump. Ultimately, a lot of your movement is supported by this tendon, which connects your calf muscle to your heel bone.

That’s what makes an Achilles tendon rupture so problematic. But how can you tell if a foot or lower-leg problem involves your Achilles tendon? Kyle Durfey, DPM, and Brian Hiapo, DPM, of Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center, with offices in Chandler and Laveen, Arizona, are Achilles tendon specialists. In this blog, they explain some of the symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture and how these injuries are treated.

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture

Achilles tendon ruptures can be partial or complete. If you suffer a total tendon rupture, you might hear a popping sound and then feel acute pain near your heel. Most people who completely rupture their Achilles tendon know it right away.

A partial rupture can be harder to pin down. To see if you’re having Achilles tendon problems, you can try doing simple activities that this tendon normally enables. For example, if you have trouble standing on your toes or bending your foot downward with your injured leg, you might have a tendon rupture.

Some people describe the feeling of an Achilles tendon rupture as being kicked in the calf. You might also have pain or swelling in the back of your heel or along your lower calf. 

Diagnosing and treating an Achilles tendon rupture

First, your provider will discuss your symptoms and nature of your injury. They will also assess your injury, likely with a physical exam and imaging tests.

From there, our team will develop a customized treatment plan. We usually try conservative treatments first with the aim of helping you avoid surgery. We have helped many patients heal surgery-free by combining immobilization of the area with rest and proven treatments, such as the following:

We’re here to help your Achilles tendon heal, so you can get back to doing what you love. If you have any unexplained heel or calf pain, or if you know you’ve ruptured your Achilles tendon, we can help you get well. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center today.

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