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Achilles tendon disorders in athletes.
Anthony A Schepsis1, Hugh Jones, Andrew L Haas
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, USA.
The American Journal of Sports Medicine
|March 26, 2002
Summary
Achilles tendon disorders, including posterior heel pain, often require understanding anatomy and biomechanics. While most cases resolve with nonoperative treatment, severe ruptures in athletes typically need surgery for optimal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Anatomy
Background:
- Achilles tendon disorders are common in sports medicine.
- Posterior heel pain has multiple causes, including paratenonitis, tendinosis, and bursitis.
- These conditions can occur independently or in combination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and treatment of Achilles tendon overuse injuries.
- To differentiate between various posterior heel pain pathologies.
- To discuss operative and nonoperative management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of anatomical and biomechanical principles of the Achilles tendon.
- Classification of posterior heel pain conditions.
- Discussion of treatment outcomes for operative and nonoperative interventions.
Main Results:
- Nonoperative treatment is successful for most Achilles tendon disorders.
- Complete Achilles tendon ruptures in athletes generally require surgical intervention.
- Recalcitrant cases may benefit from surgery, and reconstructive procedures can salvage functional deficits.
Conclusions:
- A thorough understanding of Achilles tendon anatomy and biomechanics is crucial.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management of posterior heel pain.
- Tailored treatment approaches, including surgery for specific cases, lead to favorable outcomes.