The Achilies tendon is one of the largest and strongest tendons in your body. It allows you to perform plantar flexion movement, meaning that you can bend your foot and toes in an upward and downward motion. This means that this tendon is responsible for allowing you to perform critical actions, such as:
- Walking
- Running
- Jumping
- Climbing
When high force or stress is placed on this tendon, it can make it vulnerable to injury. An Achilies tendon injury can cause pain and severely limit your movement, so if you have injured yourself, it’s important to visit your orthopedic surgeon straight away.
Our Kelowna Orthopedic Surgeons Can Help Eliminate Pain and Restore Your Mobility
At our private Kelowna hospital, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons are experienced in foot and fusion surgery, including Achilies tendon repairs, to help restore the functionality and health to your body as soon as possible.
Want to know more?
CONTACT OUR ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS IN KELOWNA
5 Signs You Require an Achilies Tendon Repair Treatment
The symptoms of an Achilies tendon rupture come on quite quickly during a sporting activity or injury. You may hear a snap or feel a sudden sharp pain when the tendon is torn. This pain tends to settle, though there may be some residual aching at the back of the lower leg.
After suffering the injury, you may experience the following:
- A flat-footed type of walk
- Inability to stand on tiptoes
- Swelling
- If the tendon is completely torn, there may be a gap above the back of the heel
- You’re unable to push off the ground properly on the side where the tendon is ruptured
If you do suspect that you’ve injured your tendon, it’s best to visit an orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible. He/she will be able to examine your symptoms and determine whether or not you require an Achilles tendon repair surgery.
Am I a Good Candidate For This Treatment?
An Achilles tendon repair is best suited for acute or chronic Achilles tendon rupture is best for patients who are healthy and who wish to return to activities such as jogging, biking, or running.
However, it is not recommended for individuals who:
- Are smokers
- Have diabetes
- Have an active infection around the tendon
- Engage in steroid use
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle
- Are in poor general health
With all surgeries, it is always best to consult with your orthopedic surgeon prior to undergoing any surgery or treatment. Your doctor will be able to best determine whether a non-operative treatment or a surgical procedure is the right option for you.
What Happens After The Achilles Tendon Repair Treatment?
The outlook for an Achilles tendon repair is good. However, you must remember that the tendon does take some time to heal (typically 6-8 weeks). More time will be required after this to allow your muscles to regian their normal strength after being in a cast.
Depending on the nature of your job, some patients may need several weeks off after this treatment and it can take anywhere from 4-12 months to return to sports.
Call Today
To find out more about our range of foot surgeries and how our orthopedic surgeons can help eliminate pain and help restore mobility to your foot, visit us at 401-3320 Richter St, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1W 4V5.
Alternatively, you can contact us at 250-868-9799 or fill in our online contact form.
