The Achilles Tendon
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It enables walking, running, and jumping. Achilles tendon injuries range from tendinopathy (inflammation/degeneration) to complete rupture. Dr Shahrukh Khan at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi provides comprehensive Achilles tendon management.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Causes
- Overuse – sudden increase in training intensity or volume
- Tight calf muscles and poor flexibility
- Flat feet or high arches
- Training on hard or uneven surfaces
- Wearing unsupportive footwear
Symptoms
- Pain and stiffness in the back of the heel – worse in the morning
- Thickening of the tendon
- Pain that improves with warm-up but worsens after exercise
Treatment
- Load management – reduce aggravating activities
- Eccentric calf strengthening (Alfredson protocol)
- Heel lifts and orthotics
- Shockwave therapy (ESWT) for chronic cases
- PRP injections
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Symptoms
- Sudden pop or snap felt in the back of the leg
- Severe pain, inability to push off with the foot
- Positive Thompson test (no plantar flexion on calf squeeze)
- Visible gap in the tendon
Treatment of Rupture
- Non-Surgical: Functional bracing in plantar flexion, progressive weight-bearing. Suitable for older, less active patients.
- Surgical Repair: Primary surgical repair is preferred for active, younger patients. Lower re-rupture rate and faster return to sport.
Recovery After Achilles Rupture
- Boot/cast for 6–8 weeks
- Progressive physiotherapy for 6–12 months
- Return to sport: 9–12 months
Expert Achilles tendon treatment at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
