The Achilles tendon is one of the most prominent tendons in the knee, and consists of a strong group of fibrous tissues that connect the muscles of the back of the leg or the gastrocnemius muscle to the heel bone. Also known as the Achilles tendon, it is considered the strongest tendon in the body, as it can bear ten times the body weight during intense effort such as running or jumping. In this article, we will review in more detail through the Dalili Medical website the symptoms and causes of Achilles tendon rupture.

Why are painkillers not effective in some cases of Achilles tendon rupture?

 

Achilles tendon rupture can occur as a result of violent play without warming up or proper preparation under the supervision of a specialized trainer, which leads to strain on the tendon. Therefore, the injured person needs rest periods and physical therapy, in addition to drug therapy, until recovery. Play should be stopped until complete recovery, then you can start returning to sports activity gradually and under the supervision of a specialized trainer.

When does a ruptured tendon heal?

 

It must heal well to restore the function of the tendon as it was before. It also requires strengthening other muscles and tendons through exercises to move the ankle and improve balance, in addition to using walking sticks. The treatment and recovery period from the injury usually takes about two to three months, depending on the patient's physical condition.

Is Achilles tendonitis dangerous?

 

Achilles tendonitis is not considered a serious condition at all. A person usually needs to follow physical therapy programs that include various exercises that help restore the strength and flexibility of the tendon. It does not require surgery to relieve the pain resulting from Achilles tendonitis.

Is the Achilles tendon the Achilles tendon?

 

Many people ask this question, and the answer is that the Achilles tendon is the same as the Achilles tendon, as it is considered the longest and strongest in the human body. Most athletes suffer from Achilles tendonitis in their middle ages, especially those who engage in intense physical activities, which leads to excessive use of this tendon.

How long does Achilles tendon treatment last?

 

The duration of Achilles tendon treatment varies based on several factors, such as the severity of the injury and the type of treatment used. In cases of minor injuries, non-surgical treatment can take 4 to 6 weeks. However, it may take longer in cases of more serious injuries or major tears. It is essential for the patient to adhere to the doctor's instructions and recommended self-treatments to promote healing and reduce the duration of treatment.

What are the causes of Achilles tendon rupture?

. **Excessive stress**: A rupture occurs when the Achilles tendon is subjected to excessive pressure or severe stress, often as a result of intense exercise or sports activities without proper preparation or not taking enough rest periods.

. **Direct injury**: An Achilles tendon rupture can occur as a result of direct trauma to the area, such as accidents or falls.

. **Aging**: As we age, the tendon becomes more susceptible to damage and rupture due to the weakness of the tissue and its decreased elasticity.

**Chronic tendinitis**: Chronic tendinitis can lead to gradual damage to the tendon, increasing the risk of a rupture.

What happens when the Achilles tendon is torn?

 

The Achilles tendon is one of the main tendons that plays a vital role in a person's ability to move their foot and walk normally. As a result of an injury such as a collision or sprain, the Achilles tendon may be torn or cut, which hinders a person's ability to move and reduces their normal range of motion.

Symptoms of a tear begin to appear gradually, as the pain increases when trying to exercise or move the foot. The injured person may feel pain in the back of the leg, accompanied by swelling and difficulty walking.

Types of Achilles tendon injuries:

There are several types of Achilles tendon injuries, the most important of which are:

. **Simple stretch**: A slight stretch occurs in the tendon without an actual tear. It may be accompanied by mild pain and slight swelling, and can be treated by rest, applying ice, and practicing rehabilitation exercises.

. **Partial tear**: This is a partial tear of the tendon, where some of the tendon fibers are separated. This type causes moderate pain and swelling, and may require non-surgical treatment such as physical therapy and the use of bandages.

. **Complete rupture**: This occurs when the tendon is completely torn, meaning it is completely separated. This type causes severe pain and leads to the inability to walk or use the affected foot. Treatment may require surgery to reattach the tendon and rebuild the damaged tissue.

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis:

Achilles tendonitis is considered a non-serious injury, as it can be treated with completely safe non-surgical methods, and we will discuss these methods later. But first, let's get to know the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis.

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include the following:

- Feeling constant pain that increases with movement.

- Difficulty bending the affected leg.

- Feeling pain during sports activities.

- Stiffness and pain in the Achilles tendon area.

- Feeling pain in the back of the leg near the heel.

Symptoms of Achilles tendon rupture:

Achilles tendon rupture is considered a common injury, especially among men, as recent studies have shown that more than 75% of cases affect men. Symptoms of Achilles tendon rupture include:

1. Hearing a popping sound in the tendon.

2. Feeling sharp pain in the foot.

3. Difficulty moving.

4. Swelling in the tendon area.

Treatment of an Achilles tendon rupture usually requires surgery, followed by a rehabilitation program that lasts up to 6 months.

**Grades of Achilles tendonitis:**

There are different degrees of Achilles tendonitis for different reasons, and they are often the result of overuse of the Achilles tendon. In most cases, tendonitis occurs during sports activities, leading to swelling and pain. Sometimes, severe injuries can lead to a complete rupture of the tendon. These degrees include:

**Partial rupture of the Achilles tendon:**Although the Achilles tendon is considered the strongest tendon in the human body, it can be exposed toD or sudden rupture as a result of a direct injury during play or exercise.

Symptoms of a partial rupture include:

- Feeling pain that increases with movement.

- Difficulty bending the affected foot.

- Pain when performing sports activities.

- Feeling stiffness and pain in the Achilles tendon area when waking up from sleep.

**Complete Achilles tendon rupture:** Complete rupture of the Achilles tendon leads to disability and severe pain. This rupture often occurs as a result of a sudden contraction of the foot or exposure to a direct blow to the tendon area.

Symptoms of a complete rupture include:

1. A sudden popping sound.

2. Feeling severe pain.

3. Inability to move.

4. Swelling in and around the site of the injury.

5. Change in the color of the affected area in some cases.

The Achilles tendon, also known as the heel tendon, is a strong tendon that connects the leg muscles to the heel bone. This tendon plays a vital role in movement and walking, as it transmits the force of the leg muscles to the bone to move the foot.

If the Achilles tendon is overstressed or torn, what is known as an Achilles tendon rupture may occur. There are several reasons that may lead to a rupture of this tendon, including:

. **Overstress**: Overloading the Achilles tendon as a result of intense sports activities or jumping strongly can lead to a rupture of the tendon.

. **Direct injury**: A rupture of the Achilles tendon may occur as a result of a direct shock to the foot or heel, such as falling from a height or being exposed to a strong blow.

. **Age**: As you age, the Achilles tendon becomes more susceptible to rupture due to tissue wear over time.

Treatment of an Achilles tendon rupture depends on the severity of the injury and its impact on motor function. Treatment options may include:

**Non-surgical treatment:**

Non-surgical treatment involves using a plaster or cast to immobilize the foot and limit its movement for a specific period, which helps the ruptured tendon heal. It also includes physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises that aim to strengthen the muscles surrounding the tendon and restore flexibility and normal movement of the foot.

**Surgical treatment:**

If the tear is severe or non-surgical treatments are unsuccessful, surgery may be necessary to repair and stabilize the torn tendon, which facilitates the healing process.

**Risk factors for Achilles tendon injury:**

There are several factors that increase the likelihood of developing Achilles tendonitis, including:

- **Gender:** Men are more susceptible to injury than women.

- **Age:** The chances of injury increase with age.

- **Physical problems:** Some physical characteristics such as having a low arch in the foot may lead to increased pressure on the Achilles tendon. Excess weight and stiffness of the leg muscles can also contribute to tendon problems.

- **Training habits:** Running in old shoes or in cold weather conditions may increase the risk of injury. In addition, running in areas with rugged terrain can be dangerous.

- **Health Conditions:** People with conditions such as psoriasis or high blood pressure may be more susceptible to the condition.

These factors determine how predisposed a person is to developing problems with the Achilles tendon, which is an essential part of maintaining the safety and strength of human movement.

**Complications**

When the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, the tendon may become weak, increasing the likelihood of it rupturing. A tendon rupture is extremely painful and often requires surgical treatment.

**Treatment of various Achilles tendon injuries**

. **Injection Therapy**

These injections include:

- Steroid injections.

- Platelet-rich plasma injections.

- Anesthetic injections, a treatment technique known as decomposition that is used to treat inflammation in its early stages.

**Achilles tendon:** The Achilles tendon, also known as the Achilles tendon or Achilles tendon, is the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon is the longest, strongest and thickest in the body, measuring about 15 cm in length, which helps lift the heel off the ground while walking.

**The most common Achilles tendon injuries:**

- **Achilles tendonitis:** The Achilles tendon may become inflamed and stressed as a result of overuse.

- **Achilles tendon rupture:** The rupture can be partial or complete, and often occurs due to improper handling of tendon inflammation or as a result of sudden pressure, which affects the ability to walk. The rupture usually requires surgical intervention for treatment.

**Achilles tendon rupture:** Achilles tendon rupture occurs when the tendon fibers are partially or completely torn as a result of severe stress or sudden and strong movements on the heel area. The rupture can occur in any part of the tendon, whether in the tendon area itself or near the heel. The rupture is usually accompanied by severe pain in the heel and difficulty walking and moving. A partial rupture usually requires a shorter healing period compared to a complete rupture.

**Achilles tendon rupture:** Achilles tendon rupture is a more serious and severe condition than a tear. A rupture occurs when the tendon completely separates from its attachment point in the heel bone. This rupture can be caused by a severe injury or excessive stress on the tendon. A ruptured tendon is accompanied by severe pain, resulting in an inability to use or move the heel. Treatment for a ruptured tendon may require immediate surgery to reattach and repair the detached tendon.

**Treatment for Achilles tendon pain:** When a person has Achilles tendon pain without a rupture or tear, treatment focuses on relieving pain and reducing inflammation.

**Treatment for Achilles tendon rupture:** If the Achilles tendon ruptures, surgical treatment is the primary option to reattach and repair the severed tendon. Surgical treatment involves bringing the detached ends of the tendon together and securing them with sutures or other surgical techniques. After surgery, the patient follows a physical therapy program to promote healing of the tendon and restore function of the heel.

**Treatment of Achilles Tendon Rupture:**

A rupture of the Achilles tendon can be either complete or partial. In cases of partial or complete rupture, non-surgical treatment may be considered the first option, especially if the rupture is not severe.

**TreatmentTo prevent Achilles tendonitis:**

- Rest and stop exercising, and you can use a crutch to relieve pressure on the tendon.

- Apply ice to the tendon area daily, for no more than 20 minutes as needed to relieve pain.

- Take painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications.

- Do stretching exercises to strengthen and strengthen the tendon.

- Use shoe inserts or cushions to slightly raise the heel and reduce pressure on it.

- Raise the injured foot to a higher level to help reduce swelling.

**Non-surgical Achilles tendon treatment:**

Treatment of Achilles tendon depends on the type of injury and the patient's condition. In most cases of minor and moderate injuries, the Achilles tendon can be treated without the need for surgery. There are several non-surgical methods that can be used to relieve pain and promote healing, including:

- **Prosthetic bandages:** An elastic bandage can be used to stabilize the foot and reduce pressure on the Achilles tendon. It is advisable to consult a doctor on how to use it correctly.

- **Physiotherapy:** The doctor may recommend physical therapy sessions to strengthen the muscles surrounding the tendon and improve flexibility and balance.

- **Ultrasound therapy:** Ultrasound can be used to stimulate the healing process and reduce inflammation.

- **Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs:** Medications such as ibuprofen or

**Treatment of Achilles tendonitis with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections**

PRP injections are considered the best option as an alternative to cortisone injections, as Dr. Ibrahim Hantera warns against using cortisone due to the possibility of causing Achilles tendon rupture.

Achilles tendonitis is treated with platelet-rich plasma injections by withdrawing about 50 ml of the patient's blood, then adding an anticoagulant. The blood is then placed in sterile tubes inside a centrifuge to separate the plasma and platelets from the rest of the blood components, and then injected into the affected area.

Platelet-rich plasma plays an important role in treating body injuries, relieving pain, and repairing tissues, as it contains a group of proteins known as growth factors that contribute to the healing process through:

1. Promoting the growth of new blood vessels and activating the tissue healing process.

2. Attracting stem cells to the site of injury and stimulating their division and activity. Stem cells are primitive cells capable of dividing and multiplying to transform into specialized cells such as cartilage and bone cells, making them responsible for regenerating damaged cells.

Exercises to treat Achilles tendonitis:

Mild inflammation in the Achilles tendon can be treated by practicing therapeutic exercises, as they contribute to relieving the pain resulting from this inflammation. The most prominent of these exercises are:

**Stretching exercise:** This exercise can be performed through the following steps:

1. Stand at arm's length from a wall or any strong exercise device.

2. Place the palms of the hands flat on the wall.

3. Move one leg back with the knee straight and the heel touching the ground.

4. Slowly bend the elbows and front knee, pushing the hips forward until the person feels a stretch in the leg muscles.

This position should be maintained for 30 to 60 seconds, switching the position of the legs

**Heel lowering exercise:**

This exercise can be performed on the stairs, where the stretch is done by lowering the heel of the foot. The following steps should be followed:

1. Hold the handrail tightly.

2. Place a ball on the edge of the lower staircase.

3. Lower the heel of the foot down until you feel the foot relax.

This exercise should be continued for 30 seconds, and repeated three times.

### Achilles tendon exercises

Achilles tendon exercises are essential for treating tendonitis, strengthening it, and increasing its flexibility. However, it is important to consult a doctor before starting any exercise program.

Achilles tendon exercises are divided into two main types:

#### 1. Stretching exercises:

- **Achilles tendon stretching exercise**: Stand with your front knee bent and place your back leg on the edge of a sidewalk or staircase. Lean forward while keeping your back straight until you feel a stretch in the Achilles tendon. Repeat the exercise with the other leg.

- **Calf muscle stretching exercise**: Sit on a chair with your knees bent and your feet on the floor. Lift your toes toward your leg while keeping your heels on the floor. Repeat the exercise 10 times.

- **Pedal muscle stretching exercise**: Sit on a chair with your knees bent and your feet on the floor. Place a tennis ball under the sole of your foot and roll it back and forth. Repeat the exercise 10 times with each foot.

**. Muscle strengthening exercises:**

**Heel lift exercise**: Stand with your knees slightly bent, and lift your heels off the floor while keeping your toes touching the floor. Repeat this exercise 10 times.

**Toe Stretching Exercise:** Sit on a chair with your knees bent and your feet on the floor. Pull your toes towards your leg and then relax them. Repeat this exercise 10 times.

**Toe Lifting Exercise:** Stand with your knees slightly bent, and lift your toes off the floor while keeping your heels touching the floor. Repeat this exercise 10 times.

You should start slowly and gradually increase the number of repetitions.

You can use some assistive tools

Tennis ball: Roll a tennis ball under your feet to massage the muscles of the soles of the feet.

Massage stick: Use a massage stick to massage the muscles of the leg and foot.

Ways to prevent Achilles tendon rupture and inflammation:

The risk of Achilles tendon rupture or inflammation can be reduced by following a set of steps that enhance the strength and flexibility of the tendon, which reduces the likelihood of injury. The most prominent of these methods are:

- Gradually increase the level of activity by doing light exercises.

- Avoid heavy exercises that may put stress on the tendons.

- Choose shoes that support your feet well.

- Do stretching exercises daily.

- Take the time to stretch your leg muscles and Achilles tendon in the morning, before and after exercise.