Achilles Tendon Disorder

Question 1

what is the most common cause of posterior heel pain?

Answer 1

achilles tendon disorders

Question 2

name the achilles tendon disorders

Answer 2

• tendinopathy (tendinits)
• partial tear
• complete rupture of the achilles tendon

Question 3

what are the risk factors for achilles tendon disorders?

Answer 3

• quinolone use (e.g. ciproflxacin)
• hypercholesterolaemia

Question 4

what are the features of achilles tendinopathy?

Answer 4

• gradual onset of posterior heel pain that is worse following activity
• morning pain and stiffness

Question 5

what is the management of achilles tendinopathy?

Answer 5

supportive
* analgesia
* reduction in precipitating activities
* calf muscle eccentric exercises

Question 6

what are the features of achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 6

• audible ‘pop’ in the ankle
• sudden onset of significant pain in the calf or ankle
• inability to walk or continue the sport

Question 7

what is simmond’s triad?

Answer 7

helps to exclude achilles tendon rupture
1. patient to lie prone with their feet over the edge of the bed
2. look for abnormal angle of declination
3. rupture –> greater dorsiflexion of the injured foot
4. feel for a gap in the tendo
5. squeeze the calf muscles –> rupture = injuryed foot stay in neutral position

Question 8

what is thompson’s test?

Answer 8

1. squeeze the calf
2. if ruptured achilles tendon –> foot will remain in neutral position

Question 9

what is the imaging modality of choice for suspected achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 9

ultrasound

Question 10

how is achilles tendon rupture confirmed?

Answer 10

MRI
utilised if an ultrasound is not available

Question 11

what is the management of achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 11

acute referral to orthopaedics