How Does An Achilles Injury Occur? And How To Treat It

An Achilles tendon rupture is a concern because it makes it difficult to walk. This tendon is located at the back of your heel. It is usually caused by a sudden force on your foot or ankle.

However, foot and ankle pain is a common symptom. If you want to prevent from being immobile, then an Achilles tendon rupture is a condition you do not want to leave untreated. Read on to find out how this injury occurs and how to treat it.

How Does It Occur?

An Achilles tendon rupture is an injury that commonly occurs when playing a recreational sport. This injury affects the back of your leg. Your tendon is a strong cord that connects the back of your calf to your heel bone. This injury usually occurs when you overstretch your Achilles tendon, which can result in a partial or complete tear.

Surgically Repair Your Tendon

One way to treat this condition is to surgically repair your tendon. Your surgeon sews together the torn ends. He or she also may need to use a tendon graft or another tendon to make the repair. After the surgery, you will have to wear a brace or plaster cast for six to 12 weeks. The cast or brace protects the tendon while it heals.

Allow To Heal Naturally

Taking the conservative approach is another way to treat an Achilles tendon rupture. This treatment means allowing your tendon to heal naturally. You will also have to wear a cast or brace. The brace or cast is positioned in a way that pushes the foot downward. This positioning takes the strain off your tendon. If your tendon does not heal naturally, then you will have to surgically repair it.

What Is The Best Treatment Option?

Surgery and conservative treatment are really the only ways to treat this injury. Many patients ask what is the best treatment. The advantage of surgery is it reduces the risk of your tendon tearing again. However, the disadvantage of surgery is getting an infection in your wound. If you are very active or play sports, then the best option is surgery. However, conservative treatment may be the best option for older patients and someone less active.

An Achilles injury makes it impossible to stay active. It can also be a very painful condition. This injury should be treated as soon as possible so that you can return to your normal activities.

For more information, click on this link http://www.yourfootdocs.com or do an online search.