Achilles Tendon Tears - Diagnosis and Treatment of Complete Ruptures

In this video, Maryke explains how you can tell whether you may have torn your Achilles tendon, what to do if you think it may be torn, and what treatment options are best. She also discusses the research with regards to surgical vs. conservative treatment.
👉 You can get some of the rehab equipment for Achilles tears that I mention in the video here:
- Aircast orthopaedic boot: geni.us/Go40Ehc
- VACOped orthopaedic boot: geni.us/wX4HA
- Crutches: geni.us/yBbnh2U
- Heel wedges (use them in both shoes): geni.us/lA7G
🌟Need more help with your injury? You’re welcome to consult one of the team at TMA online via video call for an assessment of your Achilles injury and a tailored treatment plan: www.treatmyachilles.com
👉 You may also find this video useful: Achilles Rehab after Surgery - Exercises and Recovery Times: • Achilles Rehab after S...
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🖥️Some of the software we use to run our online physiotherapy practice:
➡️ Website hosting and management - Wix: geni.us/uyiB
➡️ Taking online payments - Square: geni.us/nZUbyi
➡️ Appointment scheduling - Acuity: geni.us/ayXb91
➡️ Consultations - Zoom One (Pro): geni.us/eEeC
➡️ Patient notes - Cliniko: geni.us/L5Q3H
➡️ Rehab exercise library - Physiotec: geni.us/JIODEpQ
➡️ Patient satisfaction survey - Typeform: geni.us/1Pn4F5p
➡️ Bookkeeping - FreeAgent: geni.us/TZfc7b
➡️ In-house task planner - Notion: geni.us/yArdF6
👉Some links here are to places where you can buy something relevant to this video. If you do, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

👉 You can get some of the rehab equipment for Achilles tears that I mention in the video here: - Aircast orthopaedic boot: geni.us/Go40Ehc - VACOped orthopaedic boot: geni.us/wX4HA - Crutches: geni.us/yBbnh2U - Heel wedges: geni.us/lA7G If you buy anything via these links, we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

[@farouk7336]

I wish I had your knowledge prior to rupturing my Achilles, thank you for sharing. To those with this injury I feel your pain (literally) I wish you all speedy recovery and hope you regain full strength. I've had many sports related injuries, this one is by far the worse, hands down.

[@billyhamza5066]

I dont mean to be off topic but does someone know a tool to log back into an instagram account? I was stupid forgot the login password. I would appreciate any assistance you can offer me.

[@asifsamad1378]

Fantastic info. Thank you so much. Very clear and well-delivered too !!!

[@JulianSanchez-tt3nu]

Bless you. Thank you so much for taking the time to make this, such vital information to inform and reassure me as a patient

[@adamcoates6376]

Great video, I’m 5 weeks into a full rupture and this was soo soo helpful

[@221rosita]

Excellent video. Watched many but this one is the best. Thank you very much!!

[@parkinsonsPT]

Thank you for all the videos you do! I share them regularly with people!

[@TreatMyAchilles]

You're welcome and thank you for sharing them!

[@tommiemaxwelljr.4971]

Your information is so useful unfortunately for me I didn't see it soon enough. I will still do the exercises to strengthen my muscles again. What was so crazy was the popping sound numbness and loss of strength was immediate, as I continued to try and push the car I was losing ground when I used my left leg. All of your information was very helpful, be blessed.

[@charleso1262]

This has been the best source of information I have found so far. Excellent. Thank you so much. From time of injury to seeing an orthopedic Dr. it will be 6 days for me. I hope that my injury has not been made worse by this delay. Thanks again.

[@alexedgar6539]

Best explanation I've come across. Thank you!

[@TreatMyAchilles]

You're very welcome!

[@taylorbates5669]

The boot she is talking about is the vacoped Achilles boot I believe. It’s what I used. The thing was amazing and is worth the $300ish.

[@AliGspot]

Incredibly helpful video. Thank you

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Glad it was helpful!

[@boukjetijhuis6456]

Very informative, thank you!

[@MelSN7]

Incredibly informative. Thank you so much for the depth of very useful information.

[@michaeldiamond3372]

Y

[@jiggyv6139]

Subscribed just becuz this woman is AMAZING! I love learning new things! (Ofcourse my Achilles is torn lol🥺)

[@devriestown]

Very good information. Thank you very much.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

You are welcome

[@rushmore100]

Thank you, very useful.

[@idefinemyownlife]

Ruptured my left achilles playing football back in early February. I was lucky, and had my surgery the very same day. The protocol at that particular hospital called for 2 weeks in a cast before you started wearing a boot. Wore it for 6 weeks, and was able to ditch crutches after 1 day. I wore regular shoes but had something in my shoes that built up the heal. I was able to walk without a limp around 3-3,5 weeks after ditching the boot. I've had great progression after I got out of the boot. I am currently a little bit over the half way mark (6 months) and I have started to do calf-raises in a leg pressing machine as well as doing balancing exercises on a bosu ball. I still wear custom-made soles in shoes, and I wear them when I walk (this includes inside the house). Can't wait to be back on the pitch again in late July/early August :)

[@CombatSportsLeague]

Good luck brother 🙏 keep us posted

[@dilanmorgan881]

Amazing, amazing info!! Are we able to video chat with you somehow for questions with treatment and also so you could have a visual of the Achilles in question? I love the info here! Thank you so much!

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Hi Dilan - glad you found it useful! We do offer video consultations. You can read more about it on our website treatmyachilles.com

[@LuisRamirez-cp5bt]

Great video, thanks a lot. My baby brother has a Achilles Tendon Tear and the information was very interesting.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alanwilliams237]

Awesome video thank you. The information was clear and very easy to understand. Yesterday playing football I felt and heard the snap and I actually thought I'd be kicked in the heal very hard and I got a complete numb heal immediately the pain spread right up to the calf muscle and I could feel there was a soft part where my tendon was supposed to be.im now in a boot toes pointing down and have an appointment Monday next week for a further assessment. As of this minute the only pain I have is an when I move my leg or I go on my crutches. Thanks for all the information and you are Fantastic at explaining when how and why.

[@captainandrewcrabtree6535]

What happened in your situation? I did the exact same thing as you today playing basketball. You described it to a tee... did you have surgery or not and how is it going? Thanks.

[@kathleenlafrance3872]

Oh my. 11 weeks ago, while on vacation, I woke up with a swollen, hot ankle and could barely walk, over the next few days, walking was unbearable. Initially I thought it was gout, even though I don't drink, I am not diabetic, etc., etc. We left early and I went into 5 weeks with limited activities because there was so much pain. I then had a flare up where it got really, really painful and swollen. Had an xray and was diagnosed with calcific achilles tendinopathy. I then did at home PT with a band. 10 weeks in I was still not healing and went to my PCP who ordered and MRI and found that I indeed have a tear in my achilles. I should say I am a 69 YO female, had been fairly active, weight training, walking, etc. This limited what I could do and was not good, still is not, for my mental health. I want to heal with the best outcome no matter my age, and actually, because of my age I still want to do the things I had done before. As I watch this I am concerned that time has passed where I could've been in a boot and was proactively healing, or preventing the tear. After watching this I believe the tendon was weakened/compromised by the initial diagnosis. And I was a bit stubborn, "I will heal this myself", never dreaming it would get where it is now. I have an appointment with and ortho doc in a couple of days, no idea where that will go. I do know there is a 20mm separation. As to do I know what I did, how this happened? I have been in significant pain for weeks because of the calcific portion of my diagnosis, however at a certain point I was going up some stairs, in a bit of pain and then I felt a slight snap, then there was excruciating pain, that may have been the moment. Currently, I feel my foot is folding over, if that makes sense. I am on crutches and I also have a compression bandage on the foot for stability. Not sure where this is going, but wished I had seen this video sooner. Thank you for the detail.

[@rashomon2020]

Fantastic video - thanks so much for the clarity Maryke! I managed to partially rupture my Achilles yesterday during football - classic 'shot in the leg' reaction! I went to the hospital within two hours and now in a cast in plantar flexion. On blood thinners to mitigate DVT. The road to recovery starts now ...

[@lucasmccabe4941]

hey how has your recovery been?

[@lucasmccabe4941]

just tore mine a few days ago, did you have surgery?

[@teogustincic4978]

Very useful video, thank you. I just had a surgery for complete ropture in a basketball game and im studying the approches to that injury.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Good luck with your recovery!

[@richardnorth6988]

I fully ruptured mine 6 days ago so really glad I came across this video. Here in the uk the nhs knew exactly what to do thank god! I was placed in plantaflexion with a temporary cast 3 hours after the tear. 2 days later I had an ultrasound and placed into a full cast and prescribed blood thinners to be administered subcutaneously via injections. After the consultation I had an 8mm tear so surgery wasn’t advised but continued immobilisation for a further week in a cast then that will be replaced with a boot and wedges and as you say, gradually stretched back out over 6-8 weeks. They have continued to prescribe me the daily blood thinners until the boot is removed. I tore mine playing squash and I’m super interested to asses my good side through rehab too as I’ve played the game for 30yrs and never been injured like this before and with no real warning signs it was a bit of a shock. Thanks for the info and I’ll definitely look at your other content around remedial s&c programs for this injury!

[@papajohn4071]

Hey rich brilliant ✍️ write up how long did it take you to recover from your rupture ?

[@LowProfile26]

Hi, I've just been put on the boot and injections. How long were you wearing the boot for and any advice for the road to recovery?

[@biplaneflights]

Excellent video. Thank you. I snapped my Achilles tendon completely two weeks ago after pushing a heavy aircraft into a hangar and had the leg in a cast within five hours. Hopefully that will help speed up the recovery time. I'm now in a Moon boot with wedges. I have looked at a few other videos in this series and they offer some excellent advice.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Good luck with your recovery!

[@jimgardner3160]

Thank you for such valuable information.. My Achilles tendon was torn after taking a few rounds of Cipro for Kidney surgery. Apparently, Cipro and that class of drug makes tendons (especially the achilles) brittle and prone to tearing or rupturing. This happened to me, so beware if you ever take Cipro, or any of the fluoroquinolone class of drug. "Treat My Achilles" is great information on how to relieve the pain and heal the tear/ scar tissue without risky surgery. Thank you!

[@Pheseg]

Awesome video thank you!

[@TreatMyAchilles]

My pleasure!

[@ashleyhammond999]

This is an excellent guidance video. Having completely ruptured my Achilles 5 weeks ago I’ve been so keen to understand what happened in that moment, what may have caused it and what lies ahead in terms of it repairing and me regaining my fitness. It’s a disabling injury, using crutches for the first 2 weeks is a practical nightmare, wearing the medical boot after the first 2 weeks for an anticipated further 6 weeks is proving cumbersome. I’m keen to arrive at the day (hopefully at the point of 8 weeks after the injury occurred) when I can put trainers on and at least start to walk (without contraptions) ‘forward’ again and understand the physio exercises that I need to do each day to get strength back asap. It’s quite a horrible injury, it happened totally out of the blue but immediately disabled me. My independence disappeared in an instant and I’ve had to rely on other people for help which brings its own practical and emotional problems. Feeling unlucky is an understatement. My life plans that were outlined at the time with a new job and a home move were totally shredded at the time and, given the course & time of physio that’s likely to be needed, it seems that moving back to square one (with the life changes) is almost inevitable. Thank god it didn’t happen during winter with the dark mornings and short days. At least the arrival of spring (April 2022 in UK) has brought more daylight and more hope. Peace.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Yes! Spring definitely helps! Good luck with your recovery x

[@wendyhutchinson457]

Hi Ashley. Sounds like we are at about the same stage in our recovery. This Tuesday will be 9 weeks post op for me. I got out of the boot and am back in my shoes, but I still have some stiffness in my heel area and walk with a bit of a limp. I guess it is some scar tissue. Hopefully soon that will get better and I plan on starting a walking regimen for exercise, at week 10. I’ll have to start out slow and for a short period of time. I’m going to attempt a mile at whatever pace I can comfortably finish. Anyway, I know how you feel. I hated being dependent on someone else for help getting around. It was terrible. Best of luck to you and hopefully, we never have to do this again. 🙏😊👍

[@silvertbird1]

Good info, wish I had found it earlier. I fell off an 18” pool deck and knew by the pain I had injured something, but after a day or two could limp around, and can now walk with tolerable pain and a limp. The pain is to the rear of the ankle, so I probably partially tore the Achilles tendon. Now it may be too late to seek medical treatment.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

It is never to late to start proper treatment. Your first step should be to have it assessed and get an ultrasound scan to see what is going on. Then after that you can start rehab if appropriate. We''ve made a series of videos about partial tears - kzbin.info/aero/PL1sDnegMCeASVkEkkQVimA2OsHdPJzAuy If you wanted more specific rehab advice and help with getting back to your normal activities, this is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/

[@GRIMSREVENGE253]

Just did this to the letter today. Everything she said was so on point even to the thing when she said about feeling like somebody hit you in the back of your ankle and hearing the pop. I said did somebody step on the back of my foot on the court and when they said no I knew I was in trouble. Now I have to listen to her on how to fix it step by step............. GRIM.

[@GRIMSREVENGE253]

bunk my life dawg.

[@a_m9402]

Thank you for such an interesting consultation; I have a partial rupture of the Achilles tendon/a large part is torn and the doctor prescribed these exact bandages/for 8 weeks; I have 4 more weeks left;

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Rosh_UK]

Thanks for the video. Had the experience of a phantom calf kicker during a badminton game today. Came home, hoped for the best and that it was nothing too serious. Watched this, went to a&e and ended up getting my foot in a cast and crouches. Not sure if partial or full rupture. I'm sure I will find out soon. Focusing on a good recovery!

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Ugh sorry to hear but glad that the video was useful.

[@gregorykaplun1699]

Very helpful indeed. I wish I watched it earlier. The orthopedic doctor whom I visited yesterday did not say much and left me in the dark delaying treatment till after MRI is done (2 weeks from the visit). Now I understand how wrong it was and trying to move the MRI closer also taking some measures that should help healing. Many thanks!

[@sherryjellison]

Greg- how are you doing? I'm curious because I had pretty much the same issue. How isvyiur tendon healing?

[@ggkaplun]

@@sherryjellison Hi Sher, I have already reached the Plato: o improvement for the last 2 months or more. Have to live with pain especially in the morning or after a long drive. The injured tendon is visibly thicker than the healthy one and is sensitive too

[@sherryjellison]

@@ggkaplun Oh wow-- definitely not what I wanted to hear. You should see another orthopedic surgeon to possibly get a second look.

[@karenlisa6158]

Kindly add a video of how to do the physiotherapy exercises to attain full strength

[@commonwealthedison5346]

Gotta pay for that.

[@RobertDGordon]

Tore my Achilles today playing basketball. Went to the doctor soon afterwards, scheduled to see an orthopedist in a couple of days. Just looking forward to healing and getting back to normal. Thank you for the info.

[@luvfitall]

How did it go and what did he do??

[@RobertDGordon]

@@luvfitall I’ve been in a protective boot for the past 3 weeks. I’m going to have an MRI done tomorrow to assess the severity of the tear and the best recovery option (surgical or non surgical). I have a follow up with the orthopedist next week. I’ll keep you posted.

[@idefinemyownlife]

Hope you're doing well! Wishing you a speedy recovery!

[@RobertDGordon]

I’m coming along pretty well. Still in my boot but I’ve been back at work for a couple of weeks. My orthopedist decided the non operative route was best. I’m doing physical therapy twice a week and at home exercises daily. It was a total rupture so I still have a 9 month road to full recovery. Thank you for the well wishes.

[@bradenalexander2477]

@@RobertDGordon How is it possible to make a full recovery on a total rupture without surgery?

[@jiggyv6139]

Omgggggg this lady is freakin psychic!!!! Stg I tore my Achilles 4-5 days ago playing 🏀 & I asked the guy if he had kneed me becuz I stg that’s what it felt like and the sound I heard in my head make me believe he did so as well. This lady is SPOT ON !

[@crazylady_fumlayo]

Thank you so much for this video, really helpful and reassuring. I ruptured my Achilles approx. 6 weeks ago, whilst playing football. thought someone had kicked me in the back of my leg calf then i heard my ankle pop. was put in a cast with toe pointing downwards the next day, had a scan a few days later and was told i would need surgery, then a few days later was told surgery was not required and was put into a vacoped Boot. looking forward to fully healing and getting back to sports again :)

[@LowProfile26]

Hi, same experience as you. How did your road to recovery go? I've just been placed on the boot

[@htonmusic]

Quinolone has been associated with corneal perforation. Not sure if the eye drops cause system absorption. If systemic absorption is a concern then punctual occlusion is advised so it doesn't join the blood stream. Quinolone is a a must for contact lens infection though.

[@John-hp6fm]

Thank you.

[@leewashington5520]

Excellent video, just found out I have full rupture of my Achilles’ tendon. Playing football last week and as you described it perfectly I sprung off on one foot but my other stayed behind and felt as if someone had hit it. Everyone said no one was near you. So it was so strange how it happened until I watched this video. Also thought it can’t be that bad as wasn’t in constant pain, so went to work for two days without knowing. Been in a cast for 2 weeks now and have had my ultra scan, been told it’s a full rupture but I see the doctor tomorrow. I’m hoping I go into a boot and hope that the boot is more easy to be mobile than a cast

[@theofficialsid]

how are you now bro ?

[@LowProfile26]

Exactly the same experience as you. How did your road to recovery go? I'm currently day one of being in a boot

[@robingraysmark7576]

This is a great video. A&E NHS will provide a boot, wedges & injections to thin the blood. Virtual clinic will then confirm care plan with consult in 6 weeeks. I was lucky enough to see specialist and have ultra sound after 3 weeks 2 days but this confirmed 99% follow conservative route & healing had started. I knelt on a chair and Thompson test confirmed connection. The specialist removed one of 4 wedges then and said remove the next 3 days later which I have just done. I started walking around the block this week to - initially tentative but already improving. NHS plan therefore fine with consult after 6 weeks but long road ahead.

[@feestuart2499]

I tore my Achilles tendon and it really messed up my knee. My calf muscle took 9 months to heal however it's been 11 months and i still have pain in the inner soft tissue of the knee. Is this normal, can i do anything to help this? Thanks for the great explanation and sharing.

[@martapollock717]

Thanks for this info. Now I’m very concerned about my AQUILE. I keep working insured.

[@maureenbrophy7852]

This was a really good information regarding antibiotic’s & steroids. Thank you Much appreciate Sending this to my ohysio & friend gp

[@Choiceextras]

@Treat My Achilles When I do toe raises, I feel a slight popping sensation. Am I starting strengthening exerices too early?

[@ofaithfulwilliams697]

I have this problem,torn achilles ,burning 😩 Dr wanting to do surgery ,i want to do anything but surgery,im in Therapy trying to strengthen it in a boot as well...Thank u for video

[@TreatMyAchilles]

You're welcome - good luck with your recovery!

[@DineenWil]

I was put in a regular stabilizing splint then one day later a regular (heavy) boot. My foot was in normal position in the boot not flexed. I'm worried & I'm in my 19th-20th day since my tear which is over 90% torn. I do massage both legs & ice the left daily. Both tendons were sore before my left one popped & tore. I want surgery. I'll know soon after this 2nd opinion appt. Thanx for this very informative video. 🤸😁💃

[@boat73jr]

Was told my tear and pop wasn't something they could fix. 4 years later in still hurting

[@KazuyaM89]

Thank you, Maryke. For everyone's learning I will share one extra point about my injury - which may be a risk factor or warning sign for others listening. About 2-3 months preceding my complete left Achilles rupture, I had a similar but much less intense tear in my gastrocnemius (or soleus, I guess, was clinically diagnosed by myself without ultrasound). Both happened playing soccer, both when about to go for an explosive run, both resulted in a pop and feeling of someone kicking me in the calf, both had me limping off the court. The gastrocnemius tear was much higher up, about 3/4 of the way up my calf. There was no swelling, I used crutches for 3-4 days then just walked with a limp for a few weeks, and it was back to normal. No issues with my ankles or Achilles at the time at all. In retrospect, that was the only warning sign I ever had. It was a first for me to have a tear with a pop sensation - I'd previously had issues with annoying strains (particularly in my RIGHT (dominant) quads due to repeated strong shots usually during warm up). I dismissed it as I always do and went straight back to full force soccer, but if I'd known what would come next, I'd have (p)rehabbed and strengthened the hell out of it to avoid this crap.

[@LowProfile26]

What you've just described happened to me today! Currently in a boot for about 10 days, any advice you would give?

[@KazuyaM89]

@@LowProfile26 I'd recommend you take it slow, build up your strength in that injured leg over the coming 2-3 months. Start slow and gentle and gradually work your way up with strength training. If you need to, go to the gym, make sure your power in your injured leg is close to the uninjured one, before resuming full on contact sport. Of course if you have a physiotherapist helping you through your injury then make sure you get clearance from them as well! Good luck

[@LowProfile26]

@@KazuyaM89 appreciate your comment! Just got my plan from fracture clinic and I’m in a boot for 8 weeks then dependent on how well I’ve recovered I can begin rehab 🙏🏽

[@KazuyaM89]

@@LowProfile26 Oh no, it sounds like yours was pretty much like a full rupture or a high grade partial one! How did it happen? Did they offer you an operation?

[@LowProfile26]

@@KazuyaM89 Yeah full rupture :( same as you through football (soccer). Played about 20 mins fine then I was stationery, went to sprint and felt a movement in my calf. Felt like someone kicked me really hard in the ankle then I dropped to the floor in agony. Turned around and no one was near enough to tackle. One player said he heard the pop which was lovely ha! They didn't offer op, said the pros don't outweigh the cons so non-op would be better which I prefer anyways.

[@bogdantonoiu]

i could add the use of isotretinoin, for a long period of time (for acne treatment), for tendinopathy . I've tore my achilles under this treatment for 5 years (in Europe, we do isotretinoin low dose for an extended period of time, for really bad acne)

[@dicktomasko1553]

Thanks much. Great job explaining. I did mine may 11th went to emerg room. They gave me a boot with no lift... And a week later had an appointment with an ortho doc. They gave me a lift then. Geez how stupid.. Even though.I kept my foot pointed down because if not it would hurt.. 3 weeks now pain isn't bad and swelling almost gone. Should be fine. Thx

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Glad it helped

[@hstacker93]

Your delivery reminds me of peppy Sabine Hossenfelder; I like it. Good talk 👍🏽

[@thistooshallpass5425]

Yes!!!

[@kumailgaming3943]

My teacher had got Achilles tendon rupture on MRI report his tendon end gap is 5.8cm and fill with hematoma marrow edema is evident what u suggest

[@fjanjuah]

I’ve had swollen insertion and only walking been less than 3 month but don’t know the strength exercises

[@kumailgaming3943]

If a full length Achilles rupture with a gap of 5.8cm Age 65 yrs male what should b good treatment option

[@Takari916]

The circumstances surrounding my injury seem rare so I’d like to share it; in hopes of helping someone else in a similar situation. Well I was involved in a car accident about a year and a half ago… I obtained a lawyer who sent me to a chiropractor to deal with a herniated disc in my back. Initially my heel was a little sore following the accident but the doctor said it was normal to feel “banged up” after a car accident. Fast forward a year later and I was still having heel pain and walking with a limp. I went to a doctor to check out my heel which was extremely swollen and I was told that I had plantar fasciitis. I was given anti inflammatory medication and signed up for physical therapy. After icing my heel a couple times a day and taking the medication the swelling did go down by about 60% after 3 weeks but I was still having heel pain and walking with a limp. After attending 3 physical therapy sessions I dropped out because the physical activity was too painful. After getting a second opinion from another doctor they too said I had plantar fasciitis and needed physical therapy. I felt like my injury was being misdiagnosed so I had my attorney find me another doctor (a specialist) and made an appointment. 1 minute into my exam the new doctor told me that I didn’t have plantar fasciitis, and he felt like I had a fractured heel or a partial torn Achilles so ordered an MRI. After waiting 18 days for a follow up appointment to get the results today I was told that my MRI revealed that I have a partially torn Achilles’ tendon and a bruised calcaneus. I was immediately placed in a VACOped boot and have an appointment to meet with a specialist a little over a month. I’ve been limping around in pain with a partially torn Achilles for a year and a half due to a misdiagnosis and medical professionals not taking my complaints seriously. Because I passed the “squeeze test” they all thought my Achilles was fine.😞 If you’re experiencing pain in your heel / Achilles request an MRI or some sort of imaging to confirm the severity of your injury!

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Thanks for sharing, and good luck with your recovery!

[@TheRaginghalfasian]

I had this injury, I’m a mailman and I was walking down a flight of stairs, at the bottom step I felt like a rubber band just snapped me in the back of my calf. It wasn’t too sore but I could not put any weight on it. I did have a lot of bruising around my ankle.

[@anything..everything]

I have had similar pain for more than 4 years now. I play cricket and I think I got it while playing cricket, however my right leg is not always in pain... but I have to take pain killers before playing. My question is.. because its been more than 4 years already.. is my situation bad already or can this be healed?

[@he-dan7822]

What is the re-rupture rate with an Achilles rupture? On my path to recovery now and very nervous about the thought of doing it again

[@danajones3818]

I just injured my achilles, I can’t wait for it to heal. I’m already terrified of it happening again and I’m not even near healing. I wanna work out so bad. Hope you’re all healed up and back to working out!

[@kenanmoodaelymoodaely2165]

2nd day since rupturing my Achilles, I'm more scared than ever now, need to consult my gp again, I can't lose my football career because of this

[@anatolievseev]

This is an excellent presentation, covering the most causes and symptoms that I have seen online, including, I am sure, mine! I am in the US and sustained a rupture 10 days ago during a s-l-ow fall over an extended knee (with a ski pinned down to the ground by a sitting on it snowboarder) with the heel piece not releasing. The real cause of the rupture (in a ski boot!), I believe, was the high dose of the fluoroquinolone antibiotic (prescribed for the stomach) taken less than two months before! I self-diagnosed myself and went to the ER and the clinic but still have not seen a real doctor (until Monday -X-mas holidays...)! I am wearing a boot with a big heel lift and trying to go non-surgical! Thanks again - you sound really professional and up-to-date! One question - pushing lightly on the heel of the boot, with no weight-bearing, feels really good - is it OK?

[@anatolievseev]

Although I never got a response here, I did apply pressure on my heel early (Week 1) and started WB after week 2 (FWB Week 3). With aggressive rehab, I started skiing carefully on a big mountain after Week 6. So far so good!

[@susanal.padilla226]

@@anatolievseev where did you get the boot?

[@anatolievseev]

@@susanal.padilla226 ER

[@jimgardner3160]

Same thing happened to me after taking Fluoroquinolone Cipro.. I wish the doc had warned me!

[@anatolievseev]

@@jimgardner3160 Stay strong! Do not stop exercising! - I did and was thrown back (Developed a scar tissue knot)! It took a few months to get rid of it by lots of hiking and biking. By my snapperversary last week and my 70th birthday, I had done over 60 days of hard downhill skiing. Yes, I blame it on the doctor: He should have warned me about the dangers and not looked at my age, probably the same as his but of a different lifestyle!

[@kelvinkel119]

Great video so operation is not necessary even you hear the pop sound?

[@maureenbrophy7852]

I had both Achilles torn tendon due to antibiotics I.v. X 2 bags each antibiotic. also I am asthmatic This was given to me for food poisoning Also occurred abroad. I just fell over like a piece on day 3 Few home same day. Saw gp next day after Getting home Given 1 booth ! Attendees privately changed Hospt sad couldn’t see consultant By then it was 6 weeks Now 5 Mrs & getting really good physio. Older person. I just can’t look back as I know I was neglected. But getting there slowly

[@juaneduardopacheco7308]

Amazing, very insightful, thanks a million. I have got a questions, I had 5 weeks ago what I think was a partial rupture, and I saw a physitherapist two weeks after the injury, Today I wwent to see a doctor to the hospital, and he said that it was a total rupture. Both opinions are contradictory, how can I know for sure? The physiotherapist told me it was severy, but not a total rupture, but partial.. Whe has been treating me every week. What can I do?

[@imliz100]

Ask to see the ex rays

[@molly7282]

Get an MRI and they will know for sure

[@sheilajohnson6478]

I’m a 58 year old woman and short. I was at the grocery store and couldn’t reach an item on the top shelf. I couldn’t find anyone to help. I stepped on the bottom shelf to reach and as I came done quickly, I felt a hard pop. Immediately there was a large indentation on the back of my ankle. It is ruptured definitely. I’m choosing surgery. I don’t want to take a chance of it popping again.

[@onixpyro3883]

How could the gap come togheter when broken? Would a conplete teae actually ever heel? How? Thank you

[@Heathbarbcrunch2]

How soon after injury should we be aware of dvt

[@johnnyboy4me]

Thank you for posting your most informative video concerning the diagnosis of one's Achille injury . Unfortunately put me into the extremely delinquent patient group with respect to urgency to take appropriate action to recover in in a timely manner . I have no pain and can walk and even run fairly normally however after attempting the walk on both feet on toes only the Achille ankle I'm able to raise and walk some but clearly I have injury and a problem as its not nearly as strong as the other side . To be clear you stated that if a patient has waited to long they will not be able to recover through exercise or possibly surgery either . Am I wasting my time attempting to continue to rehab as it is unlikely to heal because of the dention period since the injury ? Thanks in advance for your response..

[@TreatMyAchilles]

This video is about complete tears - so where a tendon has fully torn off and the two ends have moved away from one another. It does not apply to any other type of Achilles injury and from what you write I really don't think that yours have torn off. So no, you are not wasting your time - your injury should respond really well to rehab no matter how long you've waited to start strengthening it.

[@johnnyboy4me]

@@TreatMyAchilles thank you for responding . I'll continue the work and see where that takes me.

[@johnnyboy4me]

@@cricketycrickets3141 thanks for asking . I am finally seeing some progress Not 100%, I remain a work in progress. I'm not in pain just painfully slow recovery but I can finally see and feel some improvement I'll soildier on and see where it takes me . Be well

[@msshann187]

I can’t stand on my toes(right leg) but I can walk , run sprint and do agility ladder I’m so confused. Got it in October it’s now April

[@kabashitor]

I feel sad after watching this because it almost 3 weeks now and i think i need to scan this for make sure it was a torn tendon or not... I went to see the doctor before and he make me wait and see until 3 weeks... Now im worried about that... Can it be cure without surgery??

[@michaelgeller991]

Hi Maryke. I’m also 3 weeks in after tearing my Achilles tendon. Doing non surgical treatment. MRI diagnosed a tendonosis in the area. Is it helpful to take a collagen supplement to rebuild the tendon?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Hi Michael, Here's our article on supplements that can help with Achilles tendinosis: www.treatmyachilles.com/post/supplements-that-can-help-achilles-tendinopathy

[@michaelgeller991]

Thank you for that informative article !!

[@luvfitall]

Thank you so much! I’ve recently mostly likely ruptured one or both mine from Levofloaxin and have no money to go to doctors so all your videos are really helping me. I’m really sad about this and hoping this is manageable. Some people say it’s REALY bad situation and some say it’s not too bad as it can be healed ect. What are your thoughts? Can I live a relivevely normal life with this.

[@RobertDGordon]

It’s best to see a specialist (orthopedist) within 48 hours of your injury. If it is a tear or rupture, you need to get a boot with an elevated heel fixture in place as soon as possible.

[@DonaldGaron]

Did you manage to heal it or both of those?

[@luvfitall]

@@DonaldGaron no. its been hell

[@DonaldGaron]

@@luvfitall :( you doing rehab exercises?

[@luvfitall]

@@DonaldGaron on my own yes.

[@yisroelmeirhoffman2581]

Hi, ruptured my achilles a week ago. My Dr. believes laser treatment helps speed up the recovery process. Any thoughts on that? I am going with the non-surgical route. Also, any thoughts on the degree of plantar flexion during the first few weeks?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Studies have so far failed to show a significant impact on tendon healing when using Laser but it may help reduce pain. If you have a complete rupture, it usually has to be immobilized in 30degree plantar flexion for at least 2 weeks before the angle is then slowly decreased until neutral is reached around week 6.

[@raymondmortu6184]

Great video, I wish I saw this the very day I had the rupture. I had it a week ago and they put me in a neutral position. Is it too late to put it in the 20 degree( a bit straight) position?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

No it’s not necessarily too late, but it may also be useful to have a scan and check how far the tendon is separated.

[@raymondmortu6184]

@@TreatMyAchilles ok, thank you for your response. Really appreciate it. I'll get that checked. 🙂

[@Ivan-zz9hd]

I had a complete rupture a month ago and stupid me only know it recently, in a cast now, ultra sound says 7cm apart, waiting for hospital to give me a date for surgery, am I able to heal from this? Very scared of this now. Thank you.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

You will heal! Surgery is the correct choice if it is separated by that much. Good luck with your recovery!

[@AishaMthegodd4m4zon]

I've heard that ruptures can be overlooked if due to scar tissue covering it up. How do you convince a doctor to examine you then?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

The history of how it happened should be enough for the doctor to suspect that it may be a tear - sudden sharp onset. Maybe find a different doctor or physio if you're not happy with your current one.

[@christianmata4366]

Does anyone have a gap? How long did it take to disappear?

[@geekyjock9]

I injured my achilles last jun 21,2022. Doctor tried thompson test i failed, so he insisted that i go for surgery and if i dont, told me i might not walk the same anymore. That turned me off. He didnt even placed me in a cast. Nor get me an MRI I know time is the essence on healing for non-surgical recovery. So what i initially did, ‘Improvised’ and bandaging my injured foot tight but comfortable on a maximum plantar “pointing down” position. While im waiting for my boot that i ordered (online waiting to arrive). Will this work? Ankle getting bruises and night pains. Thanks for your informative video. Regards from the Philippines.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Can you perhaps consult a different doctor and ask for an ultrasound scan at least? It would really be best if you get someone who can assess it for you and help you with this process.

[@nvadekar]

I would like to know your thoughts on shockwave therapy treatment protocol on insertional achilles were there is a history of having ruptures a few years ago.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

There is no contra-indication for it. It’s results can be a bit hit and miss - sometimes it helps and other times it doesn’t make a difference. But if your tendon is not responding well to strength training and you’re struggling to progress, first check that your rehab is correct and if so and still struggling, then shockwave may be an option.

[@elee6606]

It's hard to get a first appt with a physiotherapist in Canada. Alot of demand.

[@garethv7331]

Ruptured my 2 weeks ago. Ruptured in the musclur junction of my calf so it's actually extremely painful some days

[@justinfrancisco7424]

how is it going man.

[@slevin39kelevra]

Will the patient be able to remove the crutch and support the foot as tolerated, without pain, after 3-4 weeks?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

No, that is too early for a complete rupture. It may be possible for partial tears.

[@srai9844]

is this the same as - Haglund’s Deformity ?

[@andrewvitale7128]

I don't no how injured my tendon, woke one day and I had a large ball on the back of my ankle! The pain and swelling comes and gos but I'm concerned that it will tear all together..is this a possibility?

[@OGvibes-tq6zl]

You have Achilles tendinitis. The tendons all swelled up in that lump but not torn. I guess it hurts every time you walk in the morning. If it was torn you would feel a gap on the tendon and when you extend your foot with your toes point up and down, you will feel a sharpe pain. I have torn my Achilles’ tendon last week but I’m still working. Ikr crazy me but I use a lot of herbal remedies that would reduce the swelling and help blood circulation to the affected area. I collected Goty Kola leaves from a tree on the roadside here in Australia. I mix it with coconut oil and apply the leaves to the Achilles’ tendon wrapped around with a bandage. It helps me over night and when I work, I strap the hell out of it mate and I’m just able to walk but I’m limping instead.

[@andrewvitale7128]

@@OGvibes-tq6zl Thank you for the response, you have somewhat eased my stress. Once again thank you ☺️

[@OGvibes-tq6zl]

@@andrewvitale7128 you should try applying sports gel or deep heat to that lump. It would help release all the swelling built up. However though I’m not a doctor or physiotherapist, so you should consider consulting with one of the two. Thanks mate👍

[@BigTimeZergRush]

Idk if I tore or just heavily stressed my achilles tendon the other day when I went for a 40 mile bike ride up and down mountains... My ankle was swollen for 3 days and today after walking a few miles my achilles tendon has a creaking feeling whenever I try to but some pressure on it... Anyone else experience similar?

[@lailadaexplorer]

i got this on my left foot i really dont know what happened i only do massage after 7 months i go for check up and the doctor said that is all about rupture tendon you need to go for surgery😔

[@susanal.padilla226]

Where can I get a proper boot?

[@davidsenay2811]

Mine was a freak accident on a trampoline one week I'm jumping 39-41 inches and running top speed of 25mph. A week later I can't even do 1 single calf raise or jump or even walk fast anymore.

[@melinamedmedev374]

Your 2 mph off of Usain Bolt............

[@davidsenay2811]

@@melinamedmedev374 according to my Garmin watch, that was my top speed and the video I have.

[@amandadelahoussaye8347]

I recently took Amoxicillin and now have painful tears. This happened before when I was given a x pack when I had Covid. So I can’t take antibiotics. This time it is both my feet. Advice please?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Are you sure that the Achilles tendons are torn? Have they been diagnosed via scans? The reason I ask this, is because the treatment for tears are very different from that for Achilles tendonitis which can cause just as much pain. Your diagnosis will guide the treatment you have to do so the first step is to make sure of the diagnosis. Once you have that, then a physio will be able to help you recover further and if you can't get to a physio you can also consult one online. This is something that our team of physios can help you with via video call. You can read more about how the online consultations work here: www.treatmyachilles.com/

[@sherryjellison]

I'm scared because I fell 3 weeks ago and I think I tore my Achilles tendon. I went to a doctor this week and she took x-rays and told me it was fine but I'm having all the symptoms mentioned here (soreness at Achilles, can't push off or stand on toes). The doc was a family practice doctor. What doctor should I go to for a second opinion? Ortho? Podiatrist?

[@karlaarmenta312]

Go to orthopedic doctor, they tend to look at it thoroughly and sometimes can do an MRI on the injury to be sure. They usually tell you right there on the spot if it’s a partial tear, and you can possibly be on a boot cast to easily repair it, but if it’s a rupture you would not be able to walk due to the pain and flexibility … I ruptured mine and am currently on my first week with the boot. My symptoms were the same, so I urge you just to rule that out for your peace of mind to get it checked. An xray does not really show if there is a tear… it tells you if there is a fracture or something broken… my orthopedics doc told me that primary doctors don’t really specialize on that… that’s why ortho/podiatry are there to inform and help us out more…don’t mean to frighten you, but if you’re body says something is wrong listen to it. I would never wish this upon anyone so if I can suggest and tell you from my experience at the moment please get it checked. The most you can do is ice it and message it while elevating at the moment.

[@sherryjellison]

@@karlaarmenta312 Karla, thank you so much for your reply and the advice! After waiting another two weeks for an ortho appointment and MRI, I was finally able to get results. I essentially ruptured my achilles with only a few fibers left intact. I have now been placed in a heeled boot for a couple of weeks and then go from there. I really hope that this 5 weeks of misdiagnosis and waiting for appointment availability didn't hinder my proper healing.

[@garywaddell6309]

@@sherryjellison hi Sherry how did things work out for you 1 year later? My daughter had an Achilles injury and has been in a boot for about 3-4 weeks but still in quite a bit of pain. I think it’s a long recovery, just curious

[@sherryjellison]

@@garywaddell6309 HI! Thank you for asking; My achilles still gets sore if I sit too long or when first stepping out of bed in the morning but other than that, it's okay throughout the day. It's fully healed but has some scare tissue that I'm looking to get removed via gua sha use. I still do my stretches daily, take collagen supplements and drink plenty of water to keep my achilles happy. I hope your daughter has a great recovery and if you have questions, please ask away, I'd love to help. It's a long, emotional draining process.

[@garywaddell6309]

@@sherryjellison thanks for the info Sherry and sorry to hear it’s been such a long recovery. Take care of yourself.

[@junipersr]

Looking for some ideas until I can get to the doctor. (16F) Anybody have any suggestions? It hurts around the achilles tendon and is occasionally sore to the touch. It hurts after around half a day of working and the pain is in the lower heel and the middle of the tendon, but occasionally I feel it up my leg and once or twice in my butt. Walking is stiff and often painful at first but then it goes away. After a few hours it slowly gets worse and worse pain, building to between a 6 and a 10. I also have hEDS and I'm not a small person (215-ish lb). I've also just come out of a depression so this is sudden and new activity after constant hypersomnia. I have to be on my feet 3-7 hours a day (usually closer to 7). I sit down when I can but its often not an option. This is happening with compression, athletic tape, and insoles. I always ice and I try to do simple stretches when I can remember to. I've been having plantar fasciitis pain that these measures seem to help though. By the end of each day my feet basically cramp up and walking is torture. The side of my foot aches and I'm pretty sure other tendons in my foot are also quite stressed. My feet have equal pain to one another. In addition to this, the outer side of my foot went numb yesterday for a few minutes. I woke up this morning and moving my toes caused stinging sensations underneath them.

[@user-pm3is8us8i]

Hello. I’m 6 weeks post op and just coming across this video. When I ruptured my achilles , it was misdiagnosed and only 8 days later did we realize what had happened. Prior to that, I had been walking around on the injured leg. My surgeon never complained about how far apart the ends were and he said he was more concerned about it healing long. Now I’m worried and I just want to ask, am I going to heal long?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

If your surgeon fixed it and pulled the ends together, it will heal in a good position. Had he not fixed it at that point, then it would likely have healed long. You can get more advice on post-op healing in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3eblWZsiamUmdk

[@user-pm3is8us8i]

@@TreatMyAchilles This is such a relief. Thanks a lot

[@wakawaka1976]

Had that happen to my calf a couple years ago, the noise… Today sprinting after a volleyball that was miss hit I felt a pop but didn’t hear anything.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

If something popped, it may still be worth getting it checked. You don't have to hear anything.

[@wakawaka1976]

@@TreatMyAchilles thanks for the reply 😖

[@mecitty22]

Is the boot supposed to help keep our foot in a pointed positions ? Planter flexión like you said? The one in the link looks like it may keep my foot neutral

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Yes - you usually place heel lift inserts into the boot to keep it in pointed position and then slowly remove one at a time over several weeks as the tendon heels until your foot is flat in the boot.

[@BruvahSulaiman]

Felt like I got kicked. Tore completely. This was years ago. I don't remember any problems prior to the tear but I recently started getting stiffness and soreness in my opposite leg.

[@blinked025]

Because you've been walking with an improper gait for a while

[@MJ-mv8wn]

I suspect I tore my achiles nut not fully. I think I overstretched without warming up. I have pain when I touch up high on the tendon on the outer side and think it feels kinda different. It doesn't hurt to stand flat but hurts to walk and if I try to go on my toes. I'm guessing I should assume it's an achiles tear and stay off it. Thanks for the informative video

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Good luck with your recovery!

[@KidFriz]

I’m finished, I ruptured mine two weeks ago and everyone around me was telling me I just sprained my ankle but I knew something else was wrong it didn’t heal in the heal raised position it healed in a natural position and now when I do the calf test there’s no movement I guess I need surgery right?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Have it assessed by a doctor - they can check how far your tendon has separated and then help you understand what the best treatment option is.

[@avilla4013]

Is there a way to find out if the achilles is close to tearing? I'm training for a marathon but feel pain. Kind of confused on how to proceed.

[@TreatMyAchilles]

There really isn't any definitive way to find out. An ultrasound scan can give you some indication of how much structural damage your tendon has but there is currently no link between the amount of damage and risk of tearing. I've actually written an article that may be useful to read - it discusses all of this and also gives tips on how to complete a race when you do have Achilles pain www.treatmyachilles.com/post/running-with-achilles-tendonitis-is-it-safe-how-to-monitor-it

[@avilla4013]

@@TreatMyAchilles THANK YOU so much for the reply. I will read up on this.

[@ral147]

Is there actually no difference in re-injury rate between surgery vs. Non surgery?

[@TreatMyAchilles]

Yes - that is what the current research is showing but this advice may of course change in a few years once more research has been done. It seems to be more about getting the rehab right and not trying to rush it - taking time to properly build strength