An Achilles tendon tear—sometimes called a rupture—can be partial or complete. Partial tears may cause no symptoms. But complete tears cause pain and sudden loss of strength and movement. Middle-aged adults doing sports activities are more likely to get this kind of injury. Tears also happen in older adults.
Symptoms of an Achilles tendon tear may include:
If you have only a partial tear of the Achilles tendon, you may have near-normal strength after the injury. Some people with partial tears may not have any symptoms.
Courtesy of Intermountain Medical Imaging, Boise, Idaho.
Figure 1 shows magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of a normal heel and Achilles tendon. Figure 2 shows a torn Achilles tendon with fluid collected at the site of the tear.
Treatment for an Achilles tendon tear includes:
Treatment takes time, but it usually works. Most people can return to sports and other activities.
If you are healing from an Achilles tendon tear, don't smoke or use other tobacco products. Smoking slows healing. This is because it decreases blood supply and delays tissue repair.
You can do several things to help you heal and strengthen your Achilles tendon. Avoid activities that strain the tendon. Ice the tendon and take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce pain. Do gentle exercises like calf stretches. Wear supportive shoes that cushion your heels. If your doctor suggests it, wear a night brace.
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