Achilles injuries include tendonitis, bursitis, tendinosis, and tendon rupture. The most common is tendonitis, often seen in runners. Treatment depends on the condition, with rest and ice being effective for tendonitis, while tendinosis may require sports massage and ultrasound, and a complete rupture may require surgery.
Many of the different types of Achilles injuries include tendonitis, Achilles bursitis, tendinosis, and tendon rupture. Other conditions include Haglund syndrome, a condition that affects both the bursa and the tendon, and posterior compartment syndrome, which affects the area near the Achilles but not the tendon directly.
The most common type of Achilles injury is tendonitis. This injury is usually caused by repetitive strain and is often seen in runners and other athletes. Achilles tendonitis can be an acute or chronic injury, depending on how long it has been present. A repetitive strain injury of any type requires rest from the activity that caused it until the tendon has completely healed, which can take a long time since blood supply to the area is low.
Achilles tendon bursitis is another Achilles injury that commonly affects runners and others. The bursa is a small fluid sac behind the tendon that lubricates the tendon and bone. If the bursa is continuously rubbed by the tendon, it can become inflamed and cause heel pain. The condition is commonly mistaken for tendonitis. If both bursitis and tendonitis occur at the same time, the injury is called Haglund syndrome.
A partial rupture of the Achilles tendon can occur during any activity that places a large amount of force across the joint. The rupture is often accompanied by a short, sharp pain. An athlete may, in general, be able to continue activity with a partial rupture, becoming aware of the injury only when the tendon cools.
Complete ruptures of the Achilles tendon are much more serious. A sharp pain and loud banging will often be present with a complete rupture, along with a great deal of swelling. This Achilles tendon injury is one of the most feared by athletes, even though today there is a much better chance of a full return to activity with modern medical care than ever before.
Posterior compartment syndrome can be caused by impact or overuse. The posterior compartment is a thin piece of tissue that holds the muscles in the lower leg. If the muscles begin to stretch the tissue, pain can occur, often in the Achilles area. Usually, conservative treatments like icing and sports massage can cure the problem.
Treatment for an Achilles injury depends on the condition. Achilles tendonitis can usually be treated with ice and rest, especially if it’s caught early. Tendinosis, which is a chronic injury that occurs after the tendinitis inflammation has subsided, may require different treatment, such as sports massage and ultrasound. A complete rupture of the tendon, on the other hand, often requires surgery, especially if the patient is an athlete who wants to return to competition.
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