Achilles tendon dysfunction

The achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (os calcis or calcaneus)
Pain in the achilles is common and can be due to a number of factors
Inflammation occurs around the tendon and is called peritendonitis
Often simple measures such as ensuring the proper fit of shoes and especially sports footwear can improve symptoms. Activity levels may need to be decreased to reduce symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen (Brufen, Nurofen) or Diclofenac (Voltarol) can be very effective. Physiotherapy can be helpful too if simple measures have not resolved the problem
If a lump or swelling occurs around the tendon then this may indicate some degeneration of the tendon fibres. This condition can weaken the tendon and should be investigated usually with an MRI scan which shows up the detail of the tendon very well.
Occasionally surgery can be very helpful for persistent sympotms
The achilles tendon should never be injected with steroid as this significantly increase the risk of rupture
The most serious problem to affect the achilles is a rupture. These can be partial or complete. A complete rupture is best manged by surgical repair in the majority of cases. Occasionally a rupture goes un-noticed for a while and then a reconstruction may be required which is technically more demanding and the results may not be as good. It is important therefore to seek advice as soon after an injury as possible

Back to adult guides

See the post-operative program for achilles tendon repair

Orthopaedic Surgeon	Uglow Orthopaedics Introduction Home Leukaemia Research Testimonials Full text testimonials Profile Publications Services Children's Orthopaedics Adult Orthopaedics Pre-operative information Post-operative programs Links - Doctors & Therapists Links - Hospitals & Organisations Contact Site map Specialist in Foot & Ankle Surgery and Children’s Orthopaedics

Achilles tendon dysfunction The achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (os calcis or calcaneus) Pain in the achilles is common and can be due to a number of factors Inflammation occurs around the tendon and is called peritendonitis Often simple measures such as ensuring the proper fit of shoes and especially sports footwear can improve symptoms. Activity levels may need to be decreased to reduce symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen (Brufen, Nurofen) or Diclofenac (Voltarol) can be very effective. Physiotherapy can be helpful too if simple measures have not resolved the problem If a lump or swelling occurs around the tendon then this may indicate some degeneration of the tendon fibres. This condition can weaken the tendon and should be investigated usually with an MRI scan which shows up the detail of the tendon very well. Occasionally surgery can be very helpful for persistent sympotms The achilles tendon should never be injected with steroid as this significantly increase the risk of rupture The most serious problem to affect the achilles is a rupture. These can be partial or complete. A complete rupture is best manged by surgical repair in the majority of cases. Occasionally a rupture goes un-noticed for a while and then a reconstruction may be required which is technically more demanding and the results may not be as good. It is important therefore to seek advice as soon after an injury as possible Back to adult guides See the post-operative program for achilles tendon repair
updatable website by 123Live