Achilles Tendon Treatment in Spartanburg, Duncan and Greenville, SC

Achilles Tendon Doctor in Spartanburg, SC, Duncan, SC, and Greenville, SC

Achilles tendon repair is a pivotal intervention designed to address various types of injuries sustained by the Achilles tendon. This essential connective tissue linking the calf muscles to the heel bone can experience partial or complete tears, often resulting from traumatic incidents such as ankle injuries during activities like running or jumping.

Individuals encountering symptoms indicative of Achilles tendon tears, including an audible pop, bruising, pain, swelling, and an inability to point the foot downward, should promptly seek consultation with a Carolina Orthopaedics and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) specialist. Recognizing the urgency of treatment is crucial, as delays can exacerbate symptoms and complications.

Will My Tendon Injury Need Surgery?

Achilles tendon injuries encompass a spectrum of conditions, ranging from mild strains to complete tears. These injuries are commonly seen in individuals who engage in sports or activities that strain the tendon excessively. Symptoms of Achilles tendon injuries include an audible pop at the time of injury, localized bruising, acute pain, swelling around the affected area, and a notable inability to flex or point the foot downward. The severity of symptoms often indicates the extent of the tendon injury, with a complete tear presenting more pronounced and debilitating symptoms.

What Are The Symptoms Of Achilles Tendon Injury?

Symptoms of Achilles tendon injury include but aren’t limited to:

• Feeling like you got kicked in the calf.
• Pain is potentially intense, accompanied by swelling near the heel.
• Incapability to flex the foot downward or propel oneself forward from the injured leg while walking.
• Inability to rise onto the toes on the affected leg.
• Pain when walking
• A sudden popping or snapping sensation in the calf when the injury occurs

How is an Achilles Tendon Injury Treated and Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Achilles tendon injuries typically involves a comprehensive examination by a CONA foot and ankle specialist. Advanced imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be employed to assess the extent of the damage and guide the treatment plan. Treatment options vary based on the severity of the injury:

Conservative Management: Mild to moderate Achilles tendon injuries may respond well to non-surgical approaches. These may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (R.I.C.E.), and supportive devices like braces or orthotics. Physical therapy may also be recommended to enhance flexibility and strength.

Surgical Intervention: Severe Achilles tendon injuries, particularly complete tears, often necessitate surgical intervention. An outpatient Achilles tendon repair procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon delicately retracts soft tissues, visualizes the tear, and employs sutures to repair the damage meticulously. The procedure concludes with absorbable sutures closing soft tissue layers and removable sutures securing the skin.

Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation: Following surgery, a splint immobilizes the leg for two weeks, transitioning to a cast for four weeks. A removable boot is then worn for an additional six weeks, coinciding with the commencement of physical therapy. Stretching exercises and a structured rehabilitation program continue for 6-8 months post-surgery to ensure optimal recovery.

By addressing a spectrum of Achilles tendon injuries and their associated symptoms, Achilles tendon repair at CONA provides a comprehensive and tailored approach to restore function, alleviate symptoms, and promote long-term joint health. We serve patients from Spartanburg, SC, Duncan, SC, and Greenville, SC.