Katie Hester was swimming off the shores in the Bahamas when she was attacked by a six-foot-long shark that tore her Achilles tendon. The 23-year-old felt something tugging on her leg when the shark began to thrash her around in the ocean. After successfully getting away from the shark and back onto her boyfriend’s boat, Hester was rushed to medical aid where she had received dozens of stitches to repair her Achilles tendon and other wounds.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
