Achilles Tendon Injuries Flashcards
What are Achilles tendon disorders the most common cause of?
Heel pain
What increases the risk of Achilles tendon injuries?
Quinolone use (e.g. ciprofloxacin) Hypercholesterolaemia (tendon xanthomata)
How does Achilles tendonitis present?
Gradual onset of posterior heel pain
Morning pain and stiffness are common
Pain on palpation of the heel
Possible swelling and thickening
What makes the posterior heel pain worse with Achilles tendonitis?
Activity
What is the management of Achilles tendonitis?
Analgesia- Paracetamol
Reduction in precipitating activities
Calf muscle eccentric exercises
How would an Achilles tendon rupture present?
While playing sport:
An audible ‘pop’ in the ankle
Sudden onset significant pain in the calf or ankle The inability to walk or continue the sport
How is an Achilles tendon rupture assessed for?
Simmond’s triad
Palpation
Angle of declination at rest
Calf squeeze
What can be observed with an Achilles tendon rupture ?
Greater dorsiflexion of the injured foot compared to the uninjured limb
Palpable gap in the Achilles tendon
Injured foot will stay in the neutral position when the calf is squeezed.
What imaging would you use to confirm an Achilles tendon rupture?
Ultrasound
What is the management of an Achilles tendon rupture?
An acute referral to an orthopaedic specialist
