Achilles Tendon Repair

If you suffer from issues with your Achilles tendon or you have experienced a pop in the back of your ankle, Call Now!

Nagler Foot Center Houston is a state of the art facility that treats Achilles tendon issues. The Achilles tendon is said to be the strongest and thickest tendon in the human body connecting the soleus, gastrocnemius, and plantaris with the calcaneus. This tendon can become injured because of dorsiflexion or plantar flexion in the person’s ankle.

This vital part of the foot is located just behind and above the heel which joins the heel bone or calcareous with the back of the calf muscle. This is responsible for downward movement or planter flexion of the foot. A partial or complete rupture can interrupt the natural connection between the calf muscle and anklebone, which can cause serious pain.

Causes of Achilles tendon rupture

Even though the Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body it can sustain an injury. Severe push off movements can stress the Achilles tendon resulting in injury. In serious cases, it can partially or completely damage the tendon. This is commonly known as an Achilles tendon rupture. Athletes, such as football, basketball players, dancers, and swimmers have the biggest threat of this injury. Their regular activities often invite forceful push off motions resulting in torn ligaments. Dr. Nagler is a leading expert in the diagnosis of Achilles tendon issues. He is also one of the best surgeons in repairing the Achilles tendon, with his years of expertise.

Sudden falls, injuries, forced upward movement and a deep cut in the ankle can also cause tendon ruptures and can cause pain and affect foot movement.

Symptoms of Achilles tendon

Walk with a flat foot; problems with pushing off the floor

Unable to stand on tiptoe

One is able to feel the gap above the heel while walking

Treatment – Open and Percutaneous Surgery

Open Surgery: A single large incision is performed during the surgery

Percutaneous Surgery: Several tiny incisions are made in place of one large incision to mend the tendons.

In both surgeries, expert podiatrists in Houston, sew the torn tendon ends through the incision with the help of a tendon graft to fix the rupture. If there is bruising or swelling, doctors may delay the surgery for a few days in order for the inflammation to subside. Doctors can also apply conservative treatment after diagnosing the damage to allow the patient to rest in a brace to heal the tendon naturally.

A plaster cast is necessary for a complete recovery. Foot specialists at Nagler Foot Center in Houston, will always suggest wearing a cast, or a walking boot for at least eight weeks after having Achilles tendon surgery. This is for supporting the foot to keep it pointed slightly downward. It takes almost six months for a complete recovery. Podiatrists like Dr. Nagler, may suggest to their patients not to continue with their regular daily activities only after complete recovery to avoid recurrence.

Call Dr. Nagler Now at 713-893-5620.