Achilles ruptures are a frequently encountered foot and ankle injury. It occurs when there is sudden dorsiflexion of a plantarflexed foot.
These are most commonly associated with sporting events but can occur in the average non-athlete. Especially when the achilles tendon has degenerated.
Physical exam shows a palpable gap in the usual smooth tendinous surface on the posterior leg. When the gastroc-soleus (calf) muscle complex is manually compressed there is lack of plantarflexion. This is referred to as the Thompson test. Weakness in plantarflexion is also noticeable.
X-rays are almost always taken in lower extremity trauma. They usually show a soft tissue defect but are not detailed enough. MRI is the gold standard imaging study. This is required for diagnosis and more importantly achilles tendon surgery planning.
Many surgical treatment options are available depending on the length of the deficit. Percutaneous Achilles Repair System (PARS) by Arthrex is a novel MIS technique to perform a primary repair of the achilles tendon. This technique minimizes recovery and wound complications. The surgical incision is also much smaller in comparison to traditional incisions.
Postoperatively patients are placed in a gravity equinus cast or splint with Non-weight bearing. Over time the foot is brought to neutral giving the achilles tendon time to heal. Physical therapy is often utilized in the postoperative course.
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Our doctor, specialize in Trauma/Injury/Fractures, Diabetic Foot Care, Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery, Pediatric Foot Care, Wound Care,, Arthritic Foot & Ankle, Custom Orthotics, Geriatric Foot Care, Ingrown Nails, Fall Prevention, Hammertoes, Sports Medicine, Bunions, Fungal Nails, Foot & Ankle Pain, and Flatfoot.
Dr. Martins has been trained in both Canada and the United States, mastering the art of foot and ankle surgery.
Podiatry services are covered by most insurance plans. We understand the process of submitting your claim and have the expertise to ensure rapid submission of your claim. For most patients, the experience of having their medical treatments paid for by the insurance company is an effortless and smooth process.
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For our patient’s convenience, we offer our service for Achilles tendon surgery in Adrian, MI, Achilles tendon surgery in Ann Arbor, MI, and Achilles tendon surgery in Jackson, MI locations. We have our own digital x-ray, MRI, Cat-scan, and ultrasound equipment at many of our podiatry clinics. Our on-site podiatric physical therapy clinics allow for constant communication between the physicians and physical therapists, ensuring the most effective therapy and successful recovery for our patients.
Some of the case studies related to Achilles Repair are listed below. If you want to learn more about them click on the button below:
Neglected achilles ruptures can have serious long term consequences with long term disability due to muscle weakness, chronic pain and swelling in the affected limb. Achilles ruptures are a clinical diagnosis supplemented with MRIs. There needs to be a high index of suspicion to reach an accurate diagnosis. Most patients who suffer from such injuries…