The Achilles tendon is the very thick, rope-like tendon that connects the calf muscles to the top of your heel bone. Stretching your Achilles tendon too far, which frequently occurs while one is participating in sports, can cause this tendon to rupture or tear causing Achilles tendonitis. In the case of a severe injury, a loud popping sound will be heard as the tendon ruptures. Severe pain and swelling will ensue and you will not be able to walk on the affected foot.

An injury to your Achilles tendon will exhibit the following symptoms:

• A popping sound of the tendon breaking or tearing
• Walking normally or bending your foot will be incredibly painful or impossible
• Intense pain and swelling will be evident in your heel area
• You won’t be able to push off of your toes

Treatment for Achilles tendon injury

The RICE method which includes rest, icing, compression, and elevation is helpful for many foot and ankle injuries and will eventually provide relief to the Achilles tendon if the injury is not too severe. In the case of a major injury where the tendon is severely torn or even completely severed, surgery will be required to reattach the tendon.

If you are suffering from an Achilles tendon injury, see your foot care professional right away. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists, Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, provide individualized care for common issues like sports injuries, arthritis, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Our Ardmore, Paoli, Woodlyn, and Downingtown, PA offices provide high-quality services to the greater Philadelphia area. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.