The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. The tendon is responsible for assisting us in walking, jogging and running. This tendon is often torn due to an abrupt upward movement of the foot towards the leg. Typically, the tear is located in the "watershed area" of the tendon which is 2-4 inches from the heel bone. Weekend warriors (those of us who participate in athletic activities occasionally) often suffer from Achilles tendon tears. Most tears are seen in individuals between 30-50 years old. After the age of 30, the vascular supply to the Achilles begins to lessen thus making the tendon weaker than when the individual was younger. When the tendon tears or is injured, one often feels a blow to the back if the ankle which is the tendon tearing. Pain, swelling and weakness to the foot as well as inability or difficulty with walking follow the injury. Treatment involves cast immobilization for mild tears to surgical repairs for more major tears. An Achilles tendon tear should never go untreated due to scarring of the tendon and non healing of the tendon.
Dr. Eric Silvers, a board certified foot and ankle specialist in McKinney and Prosper, Texas is trained in treating and repairing Achilles tendon injuries along with all types of foot and ankle problems including sharp shooting heel pain, heel spurs, bunions, toe and toenail injuries, flat feet, ingrown toenails, hammer toes, bunions, corns, planter warts, gout, foot infections, draining foot and toe problems, tumors to the foot as well as others.
Dr. Silvers can be reached at 972-542-2155. He has offices in McKinney, Texas (McKinney Foot and Ankle Center) and Proper, Texas (Advanced Foot and Ankle). Visit his website at www.mckinneyfootcenter.com
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