How to Treat Achilles Tendon Ruptures

Treatment of Achilles tendon rupture should focus on restoring the length and tension of the tendon. The overall goal is to reestablish balance between safeguarding the tendon and full range of motion. The following steps assist you in achieving full recovery from Achilles tendon rupture.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ice
• Ice bag
• Soft cloth pad
• Ace-wrap

1. Rest the injury. Simply listen to the pain that is telling your body not to move the injured ankle.

2. Treat the spasm by ace-wrapping the ice about the injured area. The swelling will stay down and ease the pain.

3. Apply a compress (soft cloth pad) to the injured area, which also limits the swelling. You can use the Ace bandage wrapping around the compress to keep a slight pressure on the injured spot.

4. Raise the injured tendon. Gravity reduces the swelling by permitting fluid and blood to drain down toward the heart and away from the injury.

Tips & Warnings

• Achilles tendon, also called heel cord, is the largest tendon in the human body. It connects the calf to the heel bone.
• A full Achilles tendon rupture is a complete tear of the tendon about two inches up from the heel bone.
• Sharp pain as if your Achilles has been hit by a rock is an indication of a ruptured tendon.
• If you have any concern about your Achilles tendon, seek medical attention.
• Avoid applying an Ace wrap too tightly because it could cut off the blood flow.

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[gfoyle]

on 8/31/2009 I had Achilles tendon surgery three years ago and I still have some swelling and yellowish purple discoloration around my ankle. My foot and sometimes my lower leg tingles occasionally and I’ve only recovered about 60% of my calf strength. My insurance only covered four follow-ups with my surgeon and the last one was a year and a half ago. He said everything looked fine. I’ve used up all my physical therapy coverage and have continued it at home. Is it normal for me to still have the occasional swelling and constant discoloration? I mean, my left leg in general looks a tad darker in hue than my uninjured right. Any help would be appreciated.

[AchillesTendon]

on 4/4/2008 You should go see a doctor immediately if you suspect you've ruptured your achilles tendon.

Just icing isn't going to help you recover.

[AchillesTendon]

on 4/4/2008 I think most younger people with Achilles Tendon Rupture get surgery, as the rate of re-rupture is significantly lower.
Please check: http://achillesblog.com