If you have severe pain along the back of your ankle, then there is a chance that you have injured your Achilles tendon. In the most severe case, the injury may be a complete rupture where the tendon has ripped. A rupture or complete rip does need to be evaluated by a physician. Keep reading to learn about why a rupture can develop and also how the issue is treated.

How Does An Achilles Tendon Rupture?

A rupture of the Achilles tendon is most often caused by extreme levels of stress. For example, if you engage in a demanding sport or a type of physical activity after several months of inactivity, then your tendons may not have a great deal of flexibility or strength. The weaknesses can lead to tears or ruptures as you exercise. 

Also, if you do not stretch or warm up as part of your exercise routine, this can lead to tears. The overuse of the tendon can lead to injuries too. Exercises that work the calves extensively and regularly are often to blame for Achilles tendon tears.

Using heavy weights or avoiding an incremental exercise regimen can cause some tendon problems as well. 

Old age coupled with inactivity can lead to injuries like tendon tears, so it is often wise to speak with an exercise health professional or a trainer if you want to start exercising after a long hiatus.

How Is an Achilles Tendon Tear Treated?

Both surgical and non-surgical treatment methods are available. Non-surgical options involve the placement of the foot and ankle in a cast that keeps the tendon immobile for a period of time. Typically the foot is angled downward during the casting procedure to place the least amount of stress on the Achilles tendon. Casting will require immobility for upwards of three months and you will likely require some physical therapy afterward. This is due to the slow healing abilities of the tendons.

Surgical operations involve the stitching of the tendon back together. While a full cast is not necessary after the surgery, a walking case is required. And, it can take six months for the tendon to heal completely. However, more and more movement will be allowed during the healing period and you will be given different types of walking shoes and casts to use during this time. Physical therapy will also be needed as healing progresses.

If you want to know more about Achilles tendon injuries, how they happen, and how they are treated, speak with a company such as Laurel Podiatry Associates, LLC.