What is Achilles tendonitis?
The Achilles tendon attaches to a wide area above the heel bone and although the tendon is only about 1 cm thick, it attaches to the heel bone over a 3.5 cm area. repeated stresses on the Achilles tendon attachment can lead to inflammation, minor Achilles tears, swelling and pain. The swelling may be related to inflammation of the Achilles tendon and the heel gap, the posterior heel bursa. Sometimes the back of the heel can thicken, due in part to the formation of a bone spur behind the heel bone, which can slowly grow and grow into the Achilles tendon, causing greater wear and tear of the Achilles tendon.
Treatment of tendonitis at the Achilles tendon attachment
The focus is on rest, elevation of the heel at the sole of the shoe, and physical therapy. All of these measures are used to reduce tendonitis caused by walking, which can damage the Achilles tendon.
Achilles tendon and posterior heel bursa surgery: general recovery
1. At the first follow-up visit, the patient is able to walk with a brace or in a removable boot.
2, The boot should be worn for 4-6 weeks and then the patient can wear the shoe.
3, The back of the shoe should be left open to prevent friction between the Achilles tendon and the heel. Patients should preferably wear these shoes for about a month.
4.Physical therapy is an important part of the patient’s recovery process.
5, After surgery, patients may have mild swelling and pressure pain in the back of the heel that lasts for 4-6 months.
Special post-operative course.
Day 1.
1.Wrap the affected foot with a bandage.
2. Apply cold compresses and elevate the affected foot.
3.Take painkillers.
4.The affected foot may be numb for 12 hours.
5.There may be a small amount of blood leakage.
6.Do not change the dressing and bandage.
Day 14.
1.First follow-up visit to outpatient clinic.
2.Take X-rays.
3.Change the dressing and check the condition of the wound.
4.Put on a boot for the affected foot. Weight bearing is allowed.
Week 4.
1.Take off the boot.
2.Start stretching exercises.
3.Physiotherapy and exercise.
4.We will perform a computer analysis of the affected foot and then make an orthopedic arch support insole for the patient.
5.We recommend wearing open heel shoes for 1 month.