Achilles Tendon Rupture
What is a chronic Achilles tendon rupture?
Left untreated, acute Achilles tendon ruptures will become chronic injuries. Patients continue to have pain and disability as the tendon is unable to completely heal, and is in a state of chronic tearing and re-healing.
What causes a chronic Achilles tendon rupture?
Chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are the result of a neglected acute Achilles rupture. This leads to severe dysfunction of the leg, pain and disability.
What are the symptoms of a chronic Achilles tendon rupture?
The symptoms of a chronic Achilles tendon rupture are pain, swelling and a marked limp.
How is a chronic Achilles tendon rupture diagnosed?
Chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are diagnosed with medical history, thorough physical examination and imaging studies. X-rays will be ordered to evaluate for any bony abnormalities such as a fracture. An MRI is often ordered to better assess the state of the Achilles tendon.
How is a chronic Achilles tendon rupture treated?
Nonsurgical
Once an Achilles tendon rupture becomes chronic, it is often treated surgically.
Surgical
Surgical treatment entails reattaching the tendon ends together. Patients will begin physical therapy and remain in a boot or cast while the tendon heals.