An Achilles tendon rupture is a serious injury that can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. As the largest tendon in the body, the Achilles connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, enabling activities like walking, running, and jumping. When this tendon tears, the consequences can be painful and debilitating. If you’ve experienced an Achilles tendon rupture, you may wonder whether surgery is necessary for recovery.
At the offices of Steven Struhl, MD – Shoulders & Knees in NYC and Westchester, we specialize in treating tendon injuries, including Achilles ruptures. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you make an informed decision about your care.
Causes and Risk Factors
The Achilles tendon is prone to injury because it bears a heavy load during physical activities. Ruptures typically occur during sports that require sudden acceleration or jumping, such as basketball, football, or soccer. However, they can also happen during everyday activities.
Common causes include:
- A sudden increase in physical activity
- Intense physical exertion without proper conditioning
- Falling or stepping into a hole unexpectedly
- Direct trauma to the tendon
Certain factors increase the risk of an Achilles tendon rupture:
- Age: Most common in people between 30 and 50 years old
- Gender: Men are up to five times more likely to experience a rupture
- Corticosteroid injections: May weaken tendons
Certain antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones, are associated with increased tendon rupture risk.
Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Rupture
An Achilles rupture typically presents sudden and obvious symptoms. Patients often describe hearing or feeling a “pop” at the back of the ankle, followed by sharp pain and a loss of function.
Common symptoms include:
- Sudden, sharp pain in the back of the ankle or calf
- Swelling around the heel
- Difficulty walking, especially pushing off the injured foot
- An inability to stand on tiptoe on the affected leg
- A visible gap in the tendon above the heel
Prompt medical evaluation is critical. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
Does an Achilles Tendon Rupture Always Require Surgery?
Treatment for an Achilles tendon rupture depends on the severity of the tear, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. Both surgical and non-surgical options are available, and each has its benefits.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatment usually involves immobilizing the leg in a cast, brace, or walking boot with the foot pointed downward to allow the torn tendon ends to heal together naturally. This option may be appropriate for:
- Older or less active individuals
- Those with medical conditions that increase surgical risk
- Partial tears or less severe injuries
The primary downside is a higher risk of re-rupture compared to surgical repair, though functional rehabilitation protocols have significantly improved non-surgical outcomes in recent years.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is often recommended for patients who are younger, more active or want the highest chance of regaining full strength and function. Surgery involves stitching the torn ends of the tendon back together, sometimes using a graft or other augmentation techniques. Benefits of surgery include:
- Lower risk of re-rupture
- Faster recovery times for athletes or highly active individuals
- Greater potential for returning to pre-injury strength and function
Minimally invasive surgical techniques can reduce recovery time and lower the risk of infection or wound complications. Dr. Steven Struhl is experienced in advanced orthopedic surgical methods that optimize recovery and minimize risks.
Choosing the Right Treatment Plan
Deciding between surgical and non-surgical treatment requires a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Struhl considers your specific injury, lifestyle, and recovery goals before recommending a treatment plan. Whether you opt for surgery or not, a structured rehabilitation program is crucial for a successful recovery.
If you’ve experienced an Achilles tendon rupture and want to explore your options, contact our offices in NYC or Westchester to schedule a consultation. Early treatment can make a significant difference in your long-term outcome.
