Achilles Tendon Disorders

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body which stretches from the calf muscles to the bones of the heel. It can be easily felt at the back of ankle and above the heel. Besides being the largest tendon, it is prone to injuries which may occur in many forms including inflammation of the tendons and partial or complete rupture, or tear of the tendons. 

The most common disorders related to Achilles Tendons are: 

• Achilles Tendonitis: It is the inflammation of the tendon which usually occurs due to overexertion or overuse of the tendons such as during running, playing, dancing etc. The inflammation is short lived but can progress into deterioration of the tendons if proper treatment is not given on time. 
• Achilles Tendonosis:  It is the degeneration of the tendon and occurs if Achilles tendonitis is not treated properly. In this condition the tendon loses its structure and develops tiny tears which may also lead to rupture of the tendon, in severe cases.

Causes:

Achilles Tendon disorders, also known as “overuse” disorders, are generally caused by a sudden increase of a repetitive activity which puts pressure on the Achilles Tendons. Other causes may include:

• Increase in level of physical activity too quickly 
• Lack of proper stretching before exercise
• Wearing high- heels
• Feet conditions like flat feet
• Improper techniques used for exercise
• Tight muscles or tendons
• Bone Spur

Symptoms:

• Pain near the back of the feet, which is generally severe during morning or after rest
• Pain worsens with activity
• Stiffness and tenderness
• Disorganized tendons
• Tendon thickens

In case of severe pain and inflammation, the patient should seek immediate orthopedic care as the condition may deteriorate and lead to ruptured (torn) tendons.

Treatment: 

The treatment for Achilles Tendon depends upon the severity of the condition which is checked by the orthopedic doctor by performing X-Rays and MRI’s etc. The condition can be treated by both surgical and non-surgical treatments.

Non-surgical treatments:

• Immobilization: This is the first step towards reducing the pain. An orthopedic doctor may suggest the patient to take complete rest and avoid motion as physical activities may worsen the pain.
• Ice Packs: Ice is used to reduce the inflammation over the tendons. Ice compression can be helpful for the patient suffering from acute pain and inflammation. The ice should not be applied directly rather a towel should be used for applying ice to the infected area.
• Anti-Inflammatory medications:  An orthopedic surgeon may also suggest anti-inflammatory medications to reduce the pain and the swelling.
• Exercise: There are certain exercises which help in reducing the stress on the Achilles Tendon.

Surgical Treatment: 

The surgical treatment for the disorder may be considered only if the patient does not show any signs of improvement after the non-surgical treatment. The surgery depends on the amount of damage to the tendons and the location of the tendinitis.

Orthopedic Treatment For Diabetic Foot

Diabetic Foot is the condition where higher levels of glucose or blood sugar damage the nerves and blood vessels of the body. This leads to a decrease in the immunity of the body to fight infection in case of any injury. Most of the effects of diabetes are felt and seen on the foot which can quickly turn into serious illness. In most cases any minor foot injury turns into ulcers and infections, and may even lead to amputation of the feet. Therefore, one should be aware of the causes and symptoms of the condition in order to avoid any serious damage.

Causes

The condition usually develops in a person suffering from Diabetes. The risk factors which increase the chances of developing Diabetic Foot are:

• Poorly Fit Footwear: The most common cause is poorly fit shoes. They can cause red spots, blisters, corns, and calluses in the feet which can turn septic in people suffering from diabetes.
• Nerve Damage: Diabetes patients who have to be on foot for longer period and have poorly controlled diabetes are at a risk of having damage in the nerves. Such nerve damages can reduce the sensation in the feet due to which a person with diabetes may not be able to sense the minor injuries which can turn into infections.
• Other Infections: Infections like Athlete’s foot, Ingrown toenail may also lead to diabetic foot.
• Smoking:  Smoking can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the feet and legs. The damage can hamper the process of healing and can cause major infections. 

Symptoms

• Persistent pain at the site of injury
• Punctures
• Redness around the wound signifies infection
• Inflammation of the feet or legs
• Ulcers and blisters
• A sensation of warmth around the injured area
• Hard and shiny skin on the legs
• Interrupted growth of hairs
• Calluses and corns
• Seepage of pus from the bruise
• Fever
• Spreading of redness from the wound signifies worsened condition

Treatment
In case a diabetic patient suffers from an injury or wound, he must immediately seek the advice of an orthopedic doctor. If the above mentioned symptoms persist, there is an increased risk of the infection of the wound. Treatment for Diabetic Foot may include:

• Antibiotics: An orthopedic physician may prescribe an antibiotic depending on the severity of the condition. He may analyze the blood sugar levels before providing any medication. The patient should make sure to take the prescribed dosage of antibiotics to treat the condition completely.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery might be needed to heal the wound. The procedure may involve combination of treatments to give relief from the pain.

Intense care should be provided to people suffering from Diabetic Foot in order to save them from the extremity of the condition. The condition should not be ignored and the patient must immediately refer to an orthopedic physician in case of an injury.