achilles tendon disorders

Question 1

what are risk factors for achilles tendon disorders?

Answer 1

quinolone use eg ciprofloxacin
hypercholesterolaemia - predisposes to tendon xanthomata

Question 2

what are features of achilles tendinopathy/tendinitis?

Answer 2

gradual onset posterior heel pain
worse after activity
morning pain+ stiffness

Question 3

what is management of achilles tendinopathy/tendinitis?

Answer 3

supportive
analgesia
reduction in precipitating activities/rest

if persists beyond 7 days- PHYSIO- calf muscle eccentric exercises

Question 4

what are features of achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 4

audible pop in ankle while playing sport/running
sudden onset significant calf/ankle pain or inability to walk/continue sport

Question 5

what examination should be conducted if worried about achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 5

simmond’s triad
- lie prone, feet over edge of bed
- look for abnormal angle of declination
- achilles tendon rupture leads to greater dorsiflexion
- feel for gap in tendon + gently squeeze calf muscle- if acute rupture, injured foot will stay in neutral position

Question 6

what is the imaging of choice for achilles tendon rupture?

Answer 6

ultrasound calf