What You Need to Know About Achilles Tendon Injuries

Having healthy Achilles tendons is essential when you want to be a successful athlete, but this bundle of fibers is essential for every day movements as well. They are also very prone to injury. Here are some Achilles tendon facts and some information on when you should see a doctor if you think you have injured your Achilles tendon.

Watch out for an Achilles tendon injury

The foot and ankle are made up of muscles, tendon, and bone that have to work together in a precise way to keep us moving properly and comfortably. Unfortunately, it is also all-too-easy to injure the foot and ankle. A very common injury is an Achilles tendon rupture.

A rupture can happen after running and jumping while playing a very intense sport where rapid changes in direction are required, but it can also happen from something as simple as setting your foot down in just the wrong way. You will be in pain immediately, which might include heel, ankle, and/or calf pain; heel swelling; and the inability to point your toes or stand on your toes.

If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor right away. Treatment options may include rest, pain relief medication, ice, physical therapy, and/or a boot or a cast. However, if these conservative treatments aren’t enough, if the pain gets worse or does not improve, or if you have completely torn your Achilles tendon, surgery may be recommended.

It can be difficult to prevent an Achilles tendon injury, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. Stay healthy and in good physical shape (and at a healthy weight), warm up properly before you exercise, wear appropriate footwear, build up the intensity of your exercise gradually, and avoid exercising on uneven or hard surfaces, such as concrete. You might also be at higher risk of an Achilles tendon injury if you are older and if you have a foot issue such as flat feet.

If you are having pain in your heel, Specialty Orthopaedics can help! Call the office in Harrison, New York, at 914-686-0111, for an appointment today!