achilies tendonitis

Question 1

what is achilies tendonitis?

Answer 1

inflammation of the chilies tendon

more prevalent in those who engage in high intensity activities

Question 2

what is the function of the achilies tendon?

Answer 2

1. unites the gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris muscle

2. plantarflexion of the action

Question 3

what are the risk factors?

Answer 3

1. quinolone use
2. obesity
3. high intensity activity

Question 4

how does achilies tendonitis present?

Answer 4

1. gradual onset of pain and stiffness in the posterior ankle
2. pain is worse with movement
3. tenderness over palpation

Question 5

how does a achilies tendon rupture present?

Answer 5

1. sudden onset severe pain and audible popping sound

2. loss of ankle plantarflexion

Question 6

what is the test for achilies tendon rupture?

Answer 6

simmond’s test

Question 7

describe ‘simmonds test’

Answer 7

1. used to assess achilies tendon rupture
2. patient kneeling on chair with affected ankle hanging off
3. squeeze affected calf and if foot does not plantar flex
4. absence of plantarflexion = loss of achilies tendon

Question 8

mx tendonitis

Answer 8

1. nsaids and physio

2. rehabilitation

Question 9

mx of achilies tendon rupture

Answer 9

1. analgesia and immobilisation
2. ankle splinted in a plaster
3. surgical fixation if re rupture