Achilles tendon rupture is a common injury among athletes and people who engage in intense physical activities. This injury occurs when the Achilles tendon which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone tears due to excessive force or tension. It is a painful injury that can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life. However one of the most common questions among patients with Achilles tendon rupture is “Does the pain persist all the time?” In this blog post, we will explore this question and provide answers to help you understand what to expect and how to manage this injury.
The answer to the question is “not necessarily.” At the time of the injury the pain is usually severe and sudden often described as a “pop” or “snap” sensation in the area of the Achilles tendon. You may experience immediate swelling, bruising and difficulty walking or standing on your toes. However, after a few hours or days the pain may subside and you may feel relatively comfortable even though the injury has not healed. This is because the tendon loses its ability to contract and extend, making it difficult to move normally.
If you don’t seek medical attention immediately after the injury, your condition may worsen, leading to long-term pain and swelling. It is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor may recommend a non-surgical or surgical treatment depending on the severity of the injury. Non-surgical options include rest, ice, compression, elevation, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care.
Physiotherapy is an effective way to manage the pain and improve your flexibility, strength, and range of motion. Your physiotherapist will develop a customized rehabilitation program that includes exercises and stretches designed to strengthen your calf muscles and reduce the strain on your Achilles tendon. Chiropractic care involves manual manipulation of the spine and joints to relieve pain and restore mobility. A chiropractor may recommend treatments such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and orthotics.
In summary, Achilles tendon rupture symptoms can be painful and significantly affect your mobility and quality of life. The pain can be severe and sudden initially, but it may subside after a few days, leading some patients to assume that the injury has healed. However, if left untreated, the pain may worsen, leading to long-term complications. Seeking immediate medical attention, rest, ice, compression, elevation, and non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help manage the pain and restore your mobility. If you have any concerns about Achilles tendon rupture, consult your doctor or healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
