Most people have heard of Achilles tendinitis, but it’s far from the worst injury that can befall the strongest and toughest tendon in the human body. A sudden increase in the frequency and intensity of activity—especially for middle-aged recreational athletes who haven’t properly conditioned themselves—can leave you hobbled over with a tendon that has partially torn, or even completely ruptured.
In the podiatry world, there are two broad ways to approach an Achilles rupture, each one offering certain advantages and disadvantages—surgical or non-surgical.
Surgical Treatment for Ruptured Achilles Tendon
The surgical approach tends to be preferred by most doctors and patients, especially for those who are still relatively young and active, because it usually provides a faster recovery period and is less likely to be re-injured. Typically, surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon involves making a small incision in the back of your lower leg near the site of injury and re-stitching the ruptured tendon back together. More significant injuries may require the surgeon to use a separate tendon or tendon graft to reinforce the repair.
Non-surgical Treatment for Ruptured Achilles Tendon
In the non-surgical approach, the leg is placed in a cast or walking boot to keep it protected and immobile long enough for the body to heal on its own. This strategy may keep you off your feet for longer and increases the risk of re-injury, but may be preferred by older or less active patients, as well as those for whom surgery presents extra health risks. If non-surgical treatment is ineffective, surgery can always be performed later on to repair the ruptured Achilles tendon, as well.
Either way, you’re going to need an expert foot specialist to help you make the best decision for your personal situation, as well as guide you safely through the rehabilitation processes, so you can be confident that you have the best chance of a quick recovery. That’s why you should turn to the team at the Fixing Feet Institute in Surprise, AZ. Request your appointment today online using our contact form, or give us a call at (623) 584-5556.
