Achilles Tendon Rupture

The Achilles tendon is the tendon at the back of the ankle that attaches the calf muscles to the heel. The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. It helps a person to walk, run and jump. Achilles tendon rupture usually occurs above the attachment of the tendon to the heel bone. Achilles tendon rupture is a condition that can occur due to many reasons and is more common especially in middle-aged men (30-50).

How is the Achilles Tendon ruptured?

Achilles tendon rupture is a condition that occurs as a result of partial or complete rupture of the tendon that connects the calf muscle at the back of the leg to the heel bone. Although it is thought to be mostly seen in athletes, it can happen to any individual, regardless of age and gender, as a result of a sudden strain or excessive stretching.

The main causes of ruptures are as follows:

• Fall
• Digging of the foot while walking
• Excessive or sustained strain on the Achilles tendon during intense and jumping workouts

What Are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Rupture?

People whose Achilles tendon ruptures while doing sports usually describe the occurrence of the event as follows; "I thought they kicked my leg from behind with a 'pop' sound at that moment, but when I looked back, there was no one around me."

• Severe pain behind the ankle that makes walking difficult
• Swelling and bruising behind the ankle
• pronounced sensitivity
• Inability to rise on tiptoes
• The gap formed at the back of the ankle above the end of the tendon after the tear

How is Achilles Tendon Ruptured Diagnosed?

Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment

Treatment methods applied as a result of rupture of the Achilles tendon can be surgical or non-surgical. When deciding on surgery, physical examination findings, imaging, time after injury and patient-related factors should be evaluated together. Among the factors belonging to the patient, the patient's age, activity level, occupation, additional diseases and wishes are considered.

Surgical treatment

Surgical treatment of Achilles tendon ruptures provides a faster recovery and a much stronger tendon is obtained compared to cast treatment. Risks associated with the surgery; It is the opening of the surgical wound and infection caused by the poor blood circulation of this region. In cases where early recovery and early recovery is desired, especially in the treatment of Achilles tendon rupture in athletes; Surgical intervention is preferred to provide a less likely re-rupture and stronger tendon healing.

Cast Treatment

With the plaster applied to the foot-ankle, the ankle is kept still in a certain position and the ends of the ruptured tendon are brought closer to each other. This allows the tendon to heal slowly over time. For this treatment of Achilles tendon rupture, a cast or splint is usually used for 8-12 weeks. It should be considered primarily in patients with low physical activity level and higher surgical risks due to co-morbidities.