If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury, it’s imperative to receive immediate medical attention. Attempting to treat the injury yourself can result in additional damage and long-term trouble.
After consulting with an experienced medical professional, you’ll better understand the extent of your injury and how to treat it in the appropriate manner. Some options include:
- Rest: Putting weight on your leg can worsen the injury. Your doctor may suggest the use of crutches to give your injury time to heal.
- Ice: Icing your injury for 15 to 20 minutes at a time will help reduce pain and swelling.
- Take anti-inflammatory painkillers: Not everyone requires this, but drugs such as ibuprofen can help you deal with the pain and reduce swelling.
- Partake in physical therapy: Don’t do this until suggested by your doctor, as starting too soon can aggravate your injury. When you’re ready, physical therapy will help strengthen your Achilles tendon and prevent future injury.
Is surgery necessary?
Whether or not your doctor suggests surgery depends on the extent of your injury. For example, if you’ve torn your Achilles tendon, surgery is the only way to repair it.
If surgery is on the table, discuss the pros and cons with your doctor. Only then can you make an informed decision as to what to do next.
An Achilles tendon injury can happen when you least expect it. For example, if you step into a hole while working on a construction site, you could tear your Achilles tendon and require surgery to repair it.
If your injury is keeping you away from your job, file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. You’ll need this money to get by as you recover.