Achilles Tendon Problems
Monday, March 6, 2006

Most Achilles (ah’-killees) tendon problems occur in middle-aged athletes. Dr. Ken Davis describes the most common Achilles problems and their solutions in today’s 60 Second Housecall.

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It is the biggest tendon in the human body and allows you to rise up on your toes and push off while walking or running.  The two main injuries of the Achilles tendon are Archilles tendinopathy and Archilles rupture.

Achilles tendinopathy is caused by inflammation of the Achilles tendon and often includes a series of very small tears in the tissue around the tendon. Achilles tendinopathy may be accompanied by pain and swelling in the back of the heel, stiffness and decreased strength and movement.  Treatment for Achilles tendinopathy includes rest to allow the tendon to heal and therapy to increase strength and flexibility to prevent further injury.

An achilles tendon tear or rupture is noted by a sudden, sharp pain in the Achilles tendon followed by swelling, bruising and heel pain.  Treatment for an Achilles tendon rupture includes surgery to reattach the torn ends of the tendon followed by extensive rehabilitation therapy.

For North Mississippi Medical Center, I’m Dr. Ken Davis.