Achilles Tendinopathy and Rupture Flashcards
What are the hallmarks of Achilles tendon problems?
Damaged, weak, inelastic tissue
The incidence of Achilles tendon rupture in the general population is _ per 100,000
7
__% of Achilles tendon ruptures occur during recreational sports
80
__% of patients who sustain an Achilles tendon rupture had preexisting Achilles tendon problems
10
When does acute tendon pain generally develop?
When athletes abruptly increase their training intensity
What 3 things may chronic tendon pain result from?
- sustained stress
- poor running mechanics
- improper footwear
What is the most common misdiagnosis when tendon rupture is the actual cause of pain?
ankle sprain
True or False
You can automatically rule out Achilles tendon rupture if the patient can plantarflex or walk
False
Where do patients with Achilles tendinopathy typically experience pain or stiffness?
2 to 6 cm above the posterior calcaneus
What increases and decreases pain?
Pain increases with activity and diminishes with a period of rest
When does Achilles tendon rupture occur?
When a sudden shear stress is applied to an already weakened or degenerative tendon, such as pivoting suddenly or rapidly accelerating
What special test provides an accurate means for detecting complete Achilles tendon rupture?
Thompson compression (calf squeeze)
What tests are used to aid in the diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture?
ultrasound and MRI
When is surgery recommended?
- complete rupture
- partial tendon tears and chronic tendinopathy that fail to improve with 3-6 months of conservative treatment
How is acute Achilles tendinopathy treated?
- rest
- ice
- tendon support
