# Achilles Tendon Repair

- Link: https://carolinaona.com/achilles-tendon-treatment/
- Published: 2019-01-15T17:04:32-05:00
- Author: Dallas Clifton

Achilles Tendon Repair

# Achilles Tendon Treatment in Spartanburg, Duncan and Greenville, SC

 [Contact Us](https://carolinaona.com/contact-locations/)

### 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.