Most patients are first treated conservatively through non-invasive techniques and treatment options. If the problems still persist, more invasive options can be discussed along with possible surgical options.
Achilles Tendon Surgery
What is Achilles Tendon Surgery
If you tore your Achilles Tendon, that's the time you may require Achilles tendon surgery. However, in some cases, your doctor may advise you to try other treatments first. These could be pain relievers or a temporary cast to keep your leg from moving. An incision is made in the back of the calf during the procedure. If the tendon ruptures, the surgeon will sew it back together. If the tendon is degenerated, the surgeon may remove the damaged portion of the tendon and stitch the remaining tendon together. If your Achilles tendon has been severely damaged, the surgeon may replace part or all of it. This is accomplished by transferring a tendon from another part of your foot.
As a general rule, Achilles Tendon surgery procedures are performed on an out-patient basis in an Alberta Health Services (AHS) approved Surgical Center or in a Hospital. Surgical procedural costs are covered by AHS or the patient may opt for private surgery to avoid a waiting time. A visit to Feldman & Leavitt Foot And Ankle Specialists will CLEARLY define all available patient options.
Symptoms:
Tendinopathy can occur if you partially tear your Achilles. It can feel like a kick or hit to the back of the ankle if you completely tear or rupture your Achilles. You might have difficulty walking. If you have pain under your heel, it is unlikely that you have an Achilles problem. Achilles tendinopathy causes the following symptoms:
- weakness or stiffness at the back of your heel
- swelling
- decreased strength and movement
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should visit our Top Rated Podiatrists for Achilles Tendon in High River, Calgary, Alberta at Feldman and Leavitt Foot and Ankle Specialist to see if Achilles Tendon Surgery is right for you.
Causes:
- Tendonitis
Tendonitis may be caused by overuse or damage to the area. It can cause pain down the back of your leg and around your heel. Tendonitis may cause parts of your tendon to thicken and harden. If you don't treat it, it will worsen. There are two types of tendonitis:-Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis. Small tears in your tendon's middle fibers begin to degrade it. This causes inflammation and pain. This type of tendonitis is more common in active, young adults.
-Insertional Achilles tendonitis. This damage occurs where your tendon meets your heel bone. This type frequently produces bone spurs (extra bone growth). This type of tendonitis can occur at any age, even in people who are not physically active.
- Rupture
Tendon fiber tears can result in a complete or partial break (or tear) in the tendon. You may hear a "pop" from the back of your heel or calf. This could be a ruptured tendon, which requires immediate medical attention.
Surgical Treatment Options For Achilles Tendon
Treatment for a ruptured Achilles tendon is frequently determined by your age, level of activity, and the severity of your injury. In general, younger and more active people, especially athletes, prefer surgery to repair a completely ruptured Achilles tendon, whereas older people prefer nonsurgical treatment. However, both surgical and nonsurgical management are equally effective.
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Nonsurgical treatment
This approach typically involves:
- Resting the tendon by using crutches
- Applying ice to the area
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
- Keeping the ankle from moving for the first few weeks, usually with a walking boot with heel wedges or a cast, with the foot flexed down
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Surgery
In most cases, the procedure entails making an incision in the back of your lower leg and stitching the torn tendon together. The repair may be reinforced with other tendons depending on the condition of the torn tissue. Infection and nerve damage are two possible complications. Minimally invasive procedures have lower infection rates than open procedures. If you have suffer from persistent Achilles Tendon pain, seek immediate medical attention. Schedule an Appointment now at Feldman & Leavitt Foot and Ankle Specialists.
For more information on Top Rated Podiatrists for Achilles Tendonitis in High River, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons
For more information on Top Rated Podiatrists for Achilles Tendonitis in High River, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons
