Achilles Tendon

What is the Achilles tendon?

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in your body, attaching your heel to your calf muscles. It plays an important role in helping you move your feet. The Achilles tendon allows you to move forward and backward, point your feet, and stand on your toes.

What Are Common Injuries?

Your Achilles tendon can develop acute and chronic conditions over the years. Some patients have structural problems that can lead to Achilles tendon injuries, such as short tendons or muscles, or flat feet that stress the tendon.

Acute

In an acute Achilles tendon injury, you can tear or rupture your tendon with sudden twisting or pivoting movements that are common in sports. However, you don’t have to be an athlete to injure your Achilles tendon. Injuries can also occur if you take a bad step or fall.

Chronic

There are many things that can wear down your Achilles tendon over time, leaving it susceptible to tearing and injury. Chronic issues can arise from repetitive stresses that lead to tendinitis, or from wearing high heels.

What are symptoms of an Achilles Tendon injury?

If you sustain an acute injury, you may hear a snapping or popping noise from a rupture, which can be either a partial or complete tear of the tendon. The most common symptoms that signal a problem with your Achilles tendon include:

What does treatment look like?

Your treatment plan depends on the severity of your injury. If there’s mild tearing, your doctor may recommend rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and a corrective device if needed. For moderate ruptures, your doctor may recommend wearing a boot or undergoing surgery to repair your tendon. Contact us for more information about treating Achilles tendon injuries!

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

We want you to have the knowledge you need to make informed decisions for your health. Learn more about our orthopedic healthcare services by reading through our Frequently Asked Questions.

Is surgery the right course of action for me?

Surgery depends on the severity of injury. Consult with one of our specialists to determine if it’s a route you should take. Your doctor will evaluate your entire injury through comprehensive testing before deciding if surgery is right for you.

When is the best time to have surgery?

Talk with your doctor to schedule a date that works best for you. Schedule flexibility depends on your availability, the severity of your injury and surgeon schedules.

How can I ensure a quick recovery?

We recommend taking it easy during your recovery time. Your doctor will provide you with a thorough post-operative care plan to ensure a speedy recovery.

How long will it take for me to return to normal activities?

Your recovery depends on where your injury is located. Consult with your doctor before starting. Our practitioners will let you know which times are best for your recovery.

Will I be able to do everything I used to do before surgery?

Our goal is for you to return to your normal activities without pain or discomfort! Consult with your doctor about your recovery timeline and how soon you can return to work or sports.

Will I need a referral?

Most insurance providers require a referral from your doctor before covering your care. We recommend scheduling an appointment your doctor before scheduling an appointment with us.

Do you accept my insurance?

We accept several insurance programs from:

Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
FirstCare (Part of Baylor Scott & White Health)
GEHA
HealthNet
HealthSmart
Humana
Medicare
MetLife
PHCS
TeamChoice
Most Worker’s Compensation plans

Consult with our office to ensure your coverage.