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Achilles Tendon Rupture

This is a large tendon that connects your heel bone to your calf muscle. You may not realize it until you suffer a severe injury to this tendon, but your Achilles tendon is an essential part of your anatomy that you depend upon practically every time you move your foot. It helps you rise up on your toes when you are walking or exercising, and allows you to push off for each step. So when a sudden injury causes this tendon to tear or break, the effects are usually swift, painful and debilitating. The symptoms usually include:

 

Severe pain and swelling in the heel area

●Can’t rise up on your toes

●Can’t bend your foot down or put weight on it when you try to walk

●A snapping sound is often heard when the tendon breaks

 

Achilles tendon damage frequently occurs after a sudden increase in activity level or an increase in intensity of sporting activities, especially ones involving jumping and running. Accidents such as falling or stepping awkwardly off a curb can also stress and injure your Achilles tendon.

 

Some additional things that could increase your risk of Achilles tendon rupture include:

 

Your age—The majority of people that have this injury are between 30-40.

Steroids—The practice of injecting joints with steroids to relieve pain and inflammation can have the side effect of weakening the tendons.

Antibiotics—such as Cipro and Levaquin are implicated in an increased risk of Achilles tendon problems.

Sex—men are significantly more likely to suffer this injury.

 

If you feel your heel pop or snap and you are unable to walk normally afterward, you should seek medical care as soon as possible and make an appointment with your foot doctor for continuing evaluation and treatment.

 

The podiatrists at Foot Health Podiatry, PLLC, in New York City, NY, are experts in providing the best care for any problems you may be experiencing with your feet and ankles. Sorelis Jimenez, DPM, John W. Fletcher, DPM, and Kamilla Danilova, DPM and the rest of the staff at Foot Health Podiatry, PLLC, are happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have. Check out our Ask The Doctor page for answers to frequently asked questions, and never hesitate to give us a call to talk or make an appointment at 212-845-9991.

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