How your foot and ankle specialists in Austin, TX, can help with a tendon tear or rupture
If you experience an accident or injury affecting your feet or ankles, it can be a debilitating event. This is especially true if you suffer a torn or ruptured tendon. Fortunately, your podiatrist can help you recover from a torn or ruptured tendon. Dr. Trinity Mereau and Dr. Steven Walters at Capital Foot & Ankle in Austin, TX, provide comprehensive podiatry services, including treatment for a tendon tear or rupture.
There is a difference between a torn tendon and a ruptured tendon:
A torn tendon can be a subtle injury, only associated with pain.
A ruptured tendon is associated with an audible pop or snap. This is a more severe injury than a tendon tear.
So, how do you know if you have torn or ruptured your tendon? You may experience signs and symptoms like these:
- Severe pain
- Rapid bruising
- Obvious weakness
- A snapping or popping sound
- Inability to use the affected area
- Inability to move the affected area
- Inability to put weight on the affected area
- Deformity of the affected area
There are some factors to keep in mind to help prevent tendon tears and ruptures. Remember to:
- Stretch thoroughly before any activity
- Alternate high and low impact activities
- Choose stable, even surfaces when you can
- Increase exercise slowly and avoid overuse
- Always wear appropriate shoes for the activity you are doing
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. For less severe injury, your foot and ankle specialist may recommend:
- Using assistive devices to help you walk while you heal
- Applying ice packs to the affected area
- Taking anti-inflammatory and pain medication
- Immobilizing the area with a walking boot or cast
For more severe injury, surgery may be indicated to repair the ruptured tendon and restore function. Your foot and ankle specialist can discuss this option with you.
To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of a tendon tear or rupture, call Dr. Trinity Mereau and Dr. Steven Walters at Capital Foot & Ankle in Austin, TX. You can reach them in the office by calling (512) 474-6666, so call today.