Achilles tendon diseases have two causes: inflammation and degeneration. Inflammation, inflammatory processes; It occurs due to degeneration, wear and tear and aging processes. Achilles tendon ruptures are also seen after sports traumas and injuries.
Anatomy
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Its most important function is to bend the foot and ankle downward towards the floor. It enables walking, running and jumping.
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body and has a very strong structure. While running and standing on one leg, a load of 6-10 times the body weight is placed on the tendon.
Causes
Achilles tendon diseases are recurrent injuries of the tendon. It occurs due to exposure to stress and strain. Stressing the tendon beyond its capacity and trying to do this load in a short time also damages the tendon. Ruptures and ruptures of the tendon occur as a result of trauma.
Complaints
In the morning, there are complaints of pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon; Due to fatigue and strain, pain occurs along the tendon and behind the heel. Thickening of the tendon, bone protrusion behind the heel, and swelling may occur. This swelling increases with fatigue and strain. If there is sudden pain in the heel or calf muscles and a popping sound is heard, it is very likely that the Achilles tendon is ruptured.
Diagnostic methods
Calcification and bone protrusions are detected by X-ray. Wear, thickening and tears in the tendon are detected by MRI. Tendon damage and tears are detected by USG. USG is useful in guiding injection into the damaged area.
Treatment
Treatment begins with supportive methods; Rest, ice, medications, exercise, physical therapy and strengthening protocols are applied. Cortisone injection is not recommended as it may cause tendon rupture. PRP injections are performed in appropriate cases. If pain continues despite supportive treatment, different surgical techniques are used. The treatment of tendon ruptures is by repairing the tendon using surgical methods.
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