What Are the Treatments for a Damaged Achilles Tendon?

A tendon is a cord made of strong tissue. Its job is to connect your muscles to your bones. The Achilles tendon is located along the backside of both of your lower legs. It connects your heel bones to your calf muscles. This tendon is essential for activities as it walking and running, as it aids in lifting up your heel.

• Athletes are prone to injuring their Achilles tendons.

Types

• Two of the most common types of Achilles tendon injuries are an Achilles tendon rupture and Achilles tendinitis. A rupture, either partial or complete, is a tear from overstretching the tendon. Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tissue degenerates.

Features

• Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include swelling or thickening on the area, pain (especially with activity), stiffness, tenderness and possibly nodules or lumps in the area. When you rupture your Achilles tendon, you'll likely feel a "snap" and severe, immediate pain. You will be unable to walk normally.

Considerations

• According to the Sports Injury Clinic, the Achilles tendon does not heal quickly because it does not receive a large blood supply. If you experience an injury to this area, see your doctor as soon as possible to begin treatment.

Treatment

• In addition to resting and applying cold packs, your doctor can prescribe pain medications for Achilles tendinitis. You may also need rehabilitation therapy, a plaster cast or even surgery. According to the Mayo Clinic, an Achilles tendon rupture is often treated with surgery. Recovery from surgery will take from six to eight weeks, during which you'll wear a cast.

Prevention

• To prevent any kind of injury to your Achilles tendon, stretch meticulously before exercise. In particular, stretch your Achilles tendon and your calves. You can also purchase athletic shoes that have plenty of cushioning in the heel area.