Achilles Tendon Injuries
The Achilles tendon is the strongest and largest tendon in the body, playing a vital role in walking, running, and jumping. Despite its strength, it is also one of the most commonly injured tendons, particularly in active individuals. If you are experiencing Achilles tendon pain or suspect an injury, the Ortho ARC orthopaedic surgeons provide specialist assessment and treatment in Brisbane.
What is an Achilles Tendon Injury?
An Achilles tendon injury occurs when the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone becomes inflamed, strained, or torn. These injuries range from mild tendonitis to complete ruptures and can significantly affect mobility and quality of life.
Common Achilles Tendon Injuries:
- Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation due to overuse, often seen in runners or those increasing activity levels rapidly.
- Achilles Tendinosis: Degeneration of the tendon due to chronic stress without proper healing.
- Partial Tears: Small tears in the tendon that cause pain and weakness.
- Complete Rupture: A full tear of the tendon, often requiring surgical intervention.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Injuries
Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury but commonly include:
- Pain and stiffness along the back of the lower leg, especially in the morning.
- Swelling or thickening of the tendon.
- Difficulty walking, running, or standing on tiptoe.
- A popping or snapping sensation at the time of injury, which may indicate a rupture.
- Weakness in the affected leg.
Causes and Risk Factors
Achilles tendon injuries typically result from excessive stress on the tendon. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Overuse or sudden increases in activity: Rapidly increasing exercise intensity or duration without proper conditioning.
- Tight calf muscles: Limited flexibility can put added strain on the Achilles tendon.
- Poor footwear: Inadequate support can contribute to tendon stress.
- Flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics: These can cause excessive strain on the tendon.
- Aging: The tendon weakens with age, increasing the risk of injury.
- Medical conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids or fluoroquinolone antibiotics) can weaken the tendon.
Meet our Orthopaedic Specialists
Dr Blake Fidock and Dr Mirun Thayaparan provide assessment and treatment for a range of orthopaedic conditions across Brisbane.
Treatment Options
Treatment for an Achilles tendon injury is based on its severity, your lifestyle and your goals. The Ortho ARC specialists create individual treatment plans to tailor support for healing and recovery.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing weight-bearing activities can alleviate stress on the tendon.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
- Orthotics and Supportive Footwear: Custom orthotics or heel lifts can reduce strain on the tendon.
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Shockwave Therapy: A non-invasive treatment that promotes tendon healing in chronic cases.
Surgical Treatments:
For severe cases, particularly Achilles tendon ruptures or chronic tendinosis unresponsive to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary.
- Achilles Tendon Repair: The torn ends of the tendon are surgically reattached to restore function.
- Debridement and Reconstruction: Removal of damaged tendon tissue, sometimes requiring tendon grafting.
- Minimally Invasive Techniques: Where suitable, keyhole surgery may be performed to reduce recovery time.
When to Seek a Referral to Ortho ARC Brisbane
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for Achilles tendon injuries. Request a referral from your GP to Ortho ARC Brisbane if:
- You experience persistent pain or swelling that does not improve with rest.
- You have difficulty walking or standing on your toes.
- You heard or felt a snap at the time of injury.
- Your Achilles tendon feels weak or unstable.
- Non-surgical treatments have not provided relief.
Why Choose Ortho ARC for Achilles Tendon Care?
Dr Blake Fidock and Dr Mirun Thayaparan provide specialist care for foot and ankle conditions, including Achilles tendon injuries. Dr Thayaparan completed advanced training as the inaugural Brisbane Foot and Ankle Fellow, and Dr Fidock has a clinical interest in foot and ankle surgery. At Ortho ARC, treatment is shaped around your injury, needs and lifestyle goals.
At Ortho ARC, the orthopaedic surgeons use modern diagnostic and surgical techniques to provide non-surgical and surgical care. The team is committed to helping you regain mobility and return to the activities you enjoy. If you have Achilles tendon pain or suspect an injury, request a referral to Ortho ARC in Brisbane for specialist care tailored to your needs.
Experience Relief. Regain Mobility.
Schedule your consultation with Ortho ARC today, and take the first step toward a pain-free, active lifestyle.