A sudden “pop” in the back of your ankle followed by sharp pain and difficulty walking could signal an Achilles tendon rupture—a serious injury that requires prompt evaluation. Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, provides expert diagnosis and advanced treatment for Achilles tendon ruptures in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio.
The Achilles tendon plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping, making it especially vulnerable during sports or high-impact activities. Whether your injury occurred during athletics or everyday movement, Dr. Fallis offers personalized care options—from non-surgical immobilization to advanced surgical repair—designed to restore strength, mobility, and function. Patients throughout Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati trust his expertise for comprehensive Achilles tendon care and recovery.
What is an Achilles Tendon Rupture?
The Achilles tendon is a strong fibrous cord present behind the ankle that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is used when you walk, run and jump. The Achilles tendon ruptures most often in athletes participating in sports that involve running, pivoting and jumping. Recreational sports that may cause Achilles rupture include tennis, football, basketball, and gymnastics.
What are the Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Rupture?
When the Achilles tendon ruptures, you will experience severe pain in the back of your leg above your heel, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty standing on tiptoe and moving the leg when walking. A popping or snapping sound may be heard when the injury occurs.
How is an Achilles Tendon Rupture Diagnosed?
Your doctor diagnoses the rupture based on the symptoms, history of the injury and by performing a thorough physical examination. Your doctor may also feel a gap or depression in the tendon, just above the heel bone. Your doctor will gently squeeze the calf muscles. If the Achilles tendon is intact, there will be flexion movement of the foot, if it is ruptured, there will be no movement observed.
What is the Treatment for an Achilles Tendon Rupture?
An Achilles tendon rupture is treated using non-surgical methods or surgery. Non-surgical treatment involves wearing a cast or special brace that lifts your heel and allows the tendon to heal.
Surgical treatment involves opening the skin and suturing the torn tendon together. Surgery helps to lower the recurrence of the Achilles tendon rupture.
With either treatment, physical therapy is recommended to improve the strength and flexibility of the leg muscles and the Achilles tendon.
How do you Prevent an Achilles Tendon Rupture?
To help prevent an Achilles tendon injury, it is good practice to perform stretching and warm-up exercises before participating in any exercises or sports activities. Gradually increase the intensity and length of time of the activity. Muscle conditioning may help to strengthen the muscles in the body.
Why Choose Dr. Bryan Fallis for Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
When dealing with an Achilles tendon rupture, timely and specialized care is critical for proper healing and preventing long-term weakness or re-injury. Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM provides expert treatment tailored to your injury and activity level.
Here’s why patients in Ft. Mitchell and Cincinnati choose Dr. Fallis:
- Board-Certified Specialist: Advanced expertise in foot and ankle injuries and tendon repair
- Accurate Diagnosis: Thorough clinical exams and imaging when needed
- Non-Surgical & Surgical Options: Casting/bracing or surgical repair based on severity
- Focus on Recovery: Structured physical therapy plans to restore strength and flexibility
- Reduced Re-Injury Risk: Treatment plans designed to minimize recurrence
- Convenient Regional Care: Serving Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati
Dr. Fallis is committed to helping you regain full function and return safely to your daily routine or athletic activities.
Achilles Tendon Rupture FAQs
What causes an Achilles tendon rupture?
It often occurs during sports or activities involving sudden acceleration, jumping, or pivoting movements.
What does an Achilles rupture feel like?
Patients commonly report a sudden “pop,” sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing on tiptoe.
Can an Achilles tendon rupture heal without surgery?
Yes, some cases can heal with immobilization using a cast or brace, though surgery may reduce the risk of re-rupture in certain patients.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies but often takes several months, including immobilization and physical therapy.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes, rehabilitation is essential to restore strength, flexibility, and normal function.
Can Achilles tendon ruptures be prevented?
Proper stretching, warm-ups, and gradual increases in activity intensity can help reduce the risk.
Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury, don’t delay care. Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM offers expert Achilles tendon rupture treatment in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio.
Convenient care for Northern Kentucky & Greater Cincinnati residents
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