Achilles Tendon Problems

Early treatment usually results in better healing.

Achilles tendinopathy

To treat Achilles tendinopathy:

• Use home treatment. This includes resting your lower leg and foot, Reference stretching Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window the area, wearing cushioned shoes or other Reference orthotics, and switching sports or modifying how you do sports that may have caused the problem.
• Reduce pain by using ice or taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Reference acetaminophen or Reference nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as directed.
• Follow any Reference physical therapy that your doctor has prescribed. This may include stretching and strengthening exercises, massage, heat, or ultrasound.

If your Achilles tendon shortens and stiffens while you sleep, your doctor may suggest that you wear a Reference night brace Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window to keep your foot flexed.

If you keep having pain or stiffness in the ankle area, your doctor may prescribe a walking boot or other device for 4 to 6 weeks. This keeps your lower leg and foot from moving. It allows the tendon to heal.

If you still have Achilles tendon pain after more than 6 months of consistent treatment and rest, you might need to consider surgery.

Achilles tendon rupture

Treatment for an Achilles tendon rupture includes:

• Reference Surgery followed by Reference rehabilitation (rehab). This is the most common treatment for younger adults.
• Reference Immobilizing your leg, followed by rehab. This prevents movement of the lower leg and ankle. It allows the ends of the Achilles tendon to reattach and heal.

What to think about

If you treat an Achilles rupture with:

• Surgery followed by a rehab program, you will likely regain full movement and function.
• A cast or other device that keeps your lower leg from moving (immobilization), the tendon will most likely heal. But it may not be as strong as it was before the injury. It may be more likely to rupture again. Exercising, in physical therapy or in a rehab program, will help restore flexibility and strength in the lower leg.

Don't smoke or use other tobacco products. Smoking slows healing, because it decreases blood supply and delays tissue repair.

If you have an Achilles tendon rupture, your decision about whether to have surgery will depend in part on your:

• Age. If you are an older adult who doesn't do activities that may cause another rupture and who doesn't want the added risk of surgery, you may choose to use a cast or similar device.
• Medical condition. If you have another medical condition—such as diabetes or heart or lung disease—that raises the risks associated with surgery, you may choose to use a cast or similar device.
• Time of injury. Surgery is generally recommended if the rupture is more than 2 weeks old.

Opens New Window Achilles Tendon Rupture: Should I Have Surgery? Opens New Window

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.