Definition and Diagnosis - Achilles tendon rupture refers to splitting apart of tendon fibers such that normal functions of tendon are either disrupted or done away completely. Physical examination of tendon is mandatory to diagnose Achilles tendon rupture.
Definition and Diagnosis of Achilles Tendon Rupture
New York (USA), June 18, 2013
What is Achilles Tendon Rupture?
Definition of Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles tendon rupture refers to splitting apart of tendon fibers such that normal functions of tendon are either disrupted or done away completely. Achilles tendon, largest tendon in the body, connects calf muscles to heel bone and facilitates leg movements like walking, jumping, and running. This tendon, also known as heel cord, is a strong fibrous cord and can withstand extensive stresses. This is the thickest tendon in body. Nonetheless, prolonged and repetitive stress can injure tendon. Successive injuries leads to tendon rupture.
Tendon rupture can be partial or total depending on various factors like intensity of injury, strength of tendon tissue, and usage of tendon.
Achilles tendon rupture is very common among sportspersons. If you suffer from tendon rupture, you hear a crackling sound followed by a snap. A shooting pain pierces through back of ankle and lower leg. This hampers your ability to walk. Although surgery is the best option to repair Achilles tendon rupture, often non-surgical treatments also provide necessary relief. Tendon rupture is more common in males than in females.
Diagnosis of Achilles Tendon Rupture
Physical examination of tendon is mandatory to diagnose Achilles tendon rupture. Normally rupture forms a gap just above the heel. Inflammation of tendon can fill this gap.
Doctor examines your calf muscles while you lie face down with feet hanging loosely. If you have a tendon rupture, there will be no foot movement when calf muscles are squeezed. If foot movement is normal, your tendon is not ruptured. Tendon rupture is extremely painful. You will be unable to point foot downward or stand on toes of affected leg. Walking will be almost impossible. Complete tear of tendon normally occurs around two inches above heel bone.
Doctors perform O’Brien test to diagnose Achilles tendon rupture. A sterile needle is pierced into tendon through the skin. If needle moves in same direction as toes but opposite to tendon when foot is moved up and down, it is a case of partial rupture of Achilles tendon. Sometimes an MRI or ultrasound scan is necessary to confirm Achilles tendon rupture.
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Causes and Evaluation
Causes and Evaluation of Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Complications and Risk Factors
Complications and Risk Factors for Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Diagnostic Tests and Procedures
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures for Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Treatments and Medications
Treatments and Medications for Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Clinical Trials and Research Studies
Clinical Trials and Research Studies on Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies
Home Remedies and Alternative Therapies for Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Prevention and Coping
Prevention and Coping with Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Help for Achilles Tendon Rupture
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies
Achilles Tendon Rupture – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prevention, Treatment, and Remedies