Achilles Tendon Rupture ,Tear, Tendonitis

Dr. Ebraheim’s educational animated video discribing the Achilles Tendon rupture, the etiology, signs and symptoms, diagnostic tests, Thompson test and treatment options.
Two most common types of injury:
1.Achilles tendonitis which is a chronic inflammation due to stresses, micro-tears, inflammation and scar formation. It may lead to pain in the back of the heel, occasional swelling due to thickening of tendon. It often occurs in runners. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, immobilization, injections.
2.Achilles tendon rupture. Patient feels as if being kicked in the back of the ankle where the tendon snapped. In this case foot becomes floppy and weak

Thompson test is a clinical evaluation test used to assess the integrity of the Achilles tendon with the patient lying prone on the examination table; the examiner will squeeze the calf muscles of the affected leg. Slight plantar flexion of the ankle is a normal response to this examination when there is no presence of a rupture. However, if the Achilles tendon is ruptured, there is no plantar flexion or movement of the ankle and responds to squeezing of the calf muscle.