The Achilles tendon is an important component of the ankle. It connects the calf muscles to the calcaneus, providing plantar flexion at the ankle joint. In the human body, it is the thickest and strongest tendon, providing us with the ability to move freely - to walk, run, or jump. But like any organ of our body, the Achilles tendon is susceptible to various diseases that can manifest themselves in pain and discomfort in the heel and shin area. Achilles tendon disorders can significantly limit a person's mobility and make life more difficult.
Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Achilles tendon disorders. Our experienced specialists will help you determine the cause of the condition and develop an individualized treatment plan to restore tendon function and get you back to your active lifestyle.
Types of Achilles Tendon Disorders
Like many human organs, the Achilles tendon can also be a subject to various diseases.
The main types of diseases affecting Achilles tendon are:
- Inflamed Achilles Tendon – Achillitis, occurs as a result of overload or prolonged exposure of the tendon. This condition is characterized by pain and the development of swelling in the heel area, especially during physical activity or after rest. Inflammatory reactions can develop in the upper part of the Achilles tendon or in the area of attachment to the heel. This is the most common problem among athletes and action sports enthusiasts.
- Ruptured Achilles Tendon is a painful and serious condition. It occurs mainly due to sudden movements during jumping or starting acceleration, causing intense pain in the heel and difficulty in movement. The moment of rupture is accompanied by a sharp heel strike sensation.
- Treat Achilles Tendonitis – chronic inflammation of the tendon. It develops as a result of repeated micro-traumas or overloads. It is manifested by constant pain in the heel area, morning stiffness and limited mobility.
Causes of Achilles Tendon Disorders
Achilles tendon disease can be triggered by a variety of causes, such as:
- hereditary predisposition to connective tissue diseases;
- sudden increase of loads without prior preparation;
- violation of exercise technique;
- direct blows to the heel area, falls, sprains.
- uncomfortable or worn-out shoes, especially with a stiff heel and high heels;
- anatomical features and anomalies of the feet;
- infectious lesions of tendons;
- background diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, gout, diabetes);
- age-related degenerative changes in the feet;
- heel spurs.
Understanding the underlying cause of the pathology enables more effective prevention and treatment of Achilles tendon disorders.
Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms and signs of Achilles tendon disorders can vary depending on the specific disease and its stage of development.
The main signs to look out for are as follows:
Pain Calcaneal Tendon
When the tendon is inflamed or ruptured, the pain in the heel is sharp and intense, especially with loads and active movements. Painful sensations increase when trying to stand on the toes or when performing active physical exercises. In the initial stages, pain is manifested mainly after active loading, and in more serious cases - even at rest.
Inflammation
Inflammation of the Achilles tendon is accompanied by redness and swelling in the area of the heel and the back of the lower leg. The affected area may be hot to the touch and sensitive. There may be stiffness and restriction of movement, especially in the morning or after prolonged rest.
Tendon rupture
Characterized by sudden and sharp pain in the heel area, as if “struck by lightning”. There is a sensation of clicking or crunching in the heel. Acute pain syndrome is accompanied by significant swelling and bruising. Patients may have difficulty walking or performing normal everyday movements.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, under the expert care of Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, you will receive comprehensive and effective treatment for Achilles tendon repair.
Diagnostics: Understanding the Condition
To accurately diagnose Achilles tendon disorders, the doctor uses a set of methods to assess the condition of the tendon and identify damage.
Physical examination is an important stage of diagnosis as it helps the doctor:
- determine the localization of pain, its intensity and character;
- assess the presence of edema and its degree;
- identify the presence of redness of the skin over the affected area;
- assess the volume of movement and the presence of pain during movement;
- conduct special tests to assess the strength of the muscles of the lower leg.
To confirm the diagnosis, various instrumental techniques are employed:
- Ultrasound: This technique provides visualization of soft tissues and tendons, allowing for the assessment of tendon thickness, inflammation, and the presence of tears.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI offers a more detailed view of soft tissues, including the tendon and surrounding structures. It is particularly useful for detecting even small injuries to the tendon.
The findings enable the doctor to formulate an appropriate and tailored treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Achilles Tendon Disorders
Treatment of Achilles tendon disorders depends on the type of injury and its severity. The goal of treatment is to eliminate pain and inflammation, restore tendon function, and prevent recurrence.
Conservative treatment
It includes:
- limiting the load on the injured tendon;
- applying ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain;
- use of elastic bandages to fix the joint and reduce swelling;
- injecting corticosteroids or taking NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation;
- exercises to strengthen the lower leg muscles and improve flexibility of the Achilles tendon;
- use of special insoles to relieve Achilles tendon pressure.
In case of serious disorders, surgical intervention is not excluded
- Achilles tendon surgery: repair of a ruptured tendon or removal of damaged tissue.
- Heel surgery: correction of anatomical abnormalities or removal of bone spikes.
Don’t delay seeking expert care if you're experiencing foot issues. At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, led by Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, we offer advanced diagnostic techniques and cutting-edge treatments for Achilles tendon disorders. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards restoring your mobility and active lifestyle.