Foot & Ankle Care

The average person walks more than 125,000 miles in a lifetime. Walking this distance over the course of a lifetime requires a person’s feet to be strong and stable.

Achilles Tendon Rupture & Tendinitis

Foot & Ankle Specialists At Wisconsin Bone & Joint

The physicians at Wisconsin Bone & Joint utilize cutting-edge technology to assess, diagnose and work with patients to develop innovative treatment plans for a variety of foot and ankle conditions and injuries. Our team of physicians are committed to providing you with the best treatment options to alleviate your foot and ankle pain.

Providing trusted Orthopedic care in the community for over 40+ years

At Wisconsin Bone and Joint, we pride ourselves with providing you highly personalized and comprehensive orthopedic care. Our philosophy of direct physician-to-patient care means your physician will be an intrical part of every stage of your care. This commitment to a dedicated continuum-of-care model has made us one of the most trusted and respected practices in Southeast Wisconsin and greater Milwaukee area.

Achilles Tendon Rupture & Tendinitis

What Is Achilles Tendon Rupture or Tendinitis?

The Achilles tendon is located behind the ankle and connects the heel of the foot to the calf muscles. An Achilles tendon rupture is when this tendon tears.

What Causes Achilles Tendon Rupture or Tendinitis?

As “overuse” disorders, Achilles tendonitis and tendonosis are usually caused by a sudden increase of a repetitive activity involving the Achilles tendon. Such activity puts too much stress on the tendon too quickly, leading to micro-injury of the tendon fibers.

What Are The Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Rupture or Tendinitis?

Achilles Tendon Rupture

The Achilles tendon is responsible for push off of the ankle. It connects the calf muscle to the heel bone of the foot.

Injury to the Achilles tendon can occur from a sudden jump or planting of the foot or can occur from chronic repetitive damage or tendonitis. Patients often complain of heel pain and a sensation that someone struck the back of their leg or they were “shot” in the heel when a tear occurs.  A “pop” or “explosion” is frequently felt when the tendon ruptures.  There is usually swelling and a defect of the tendon as well as weakness of the foot with a tear.  Physical examination by a Foot and Ankle Specialist typically confirms the diagnosis, however in some rare cases an MRI scan may be needed to show the exact location of the tear and the distance between the two tendon edges. 

Achilles Tendonitis

This condition is marked by inflammation and irritation of the Achilles tendon which is located in the back of the ankle. Achilles tendonitis is a fairly common overuse injury that often occurs in middle-aged, recreational athletes. Overuse of the tendon results in noticeable inflammation that may eventually lead to pain and swelling. In addition, Achilles tendonitis can also lead to a series of tears within the tendon, rendering it susceptible to rupture.

What Are The Treatment Options For Achilles Tendon Rupture or Tendinitis?

Achilles Tendon Rupture
Surgery may be required to fix a large, full tear. After appropriate treatment, exercise therapy will make the tendon stronger.

Achilles Tendonitis

Recurring cases may require surgery to repair damaged portions of the tendon.

Our team is here for you

When conservative care and treatment is appropriate, we offer the best, least invasive, least aggressive treatment options to relieve your pain and discomfort. When an injury is more serious and conservative care is not an option, our orthopedic surgeons provide the latest in innovative surgical interventions available with the goal of getting you back to the life you love. Wisconsin Bone & Joint physicians offer orthopedic services at three convenient locations in Mayfair, Glendale and Cedarburg.