Achilles Tendon Injury Treatment & Repair in Austin & Leander | Andrew Ebert, M.D.
Achilles tendon injuries can significantly impact your ability to walk, run, and stay active. Whether caused by sports, overuse, or sudden strain, these injuries require timely and precise care to prevent long-term complications. Andrew Ebert, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon serving Austin & Leander, specializes in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendon conditions, including tendonitis, partial tears, and complete ruptures.
Using advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, Dr. Ebert offers both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to your activity level and injury severity. Patients in Austin & Leander benefit from evidence-based care focused on reducing pain, restoring strength, and enabling a safe return to daily activities and sports.
Achilles Tendon Anatomy
Tendons are soft tissues connecting muscle to bone. The Achilles tendon is the longest tendon in the body and is present behind the ankle, joining the calf muscles with the heel bone. Contraction of the calf muscles tightens the Achilles tendon and pulls the heel, enabling the foot and toe movements necessary for walking, running and jumping.
Achilles Tendon Injury
The Achilles tendon is often injured during sports activities, resulting in an inflammatory condition called tendonitis, which is characterized by swelling and pain. In some cases, severe injury results in a tear or rupture of the Achilles tendon, requiring immediate medical attention.
Causes of Achilles Tendon Injury
The tear or rupture of the Achilles tendon is commonly seen in middle-aged men involved in sports activities. The tendon ruptures as a result of weakness due to advanced age or from sudden bursts of activity during certain sports such as tennis, badminton, and basketball. Having a history of tendonitis, certain diseases such as arthritis and diabetes, or certain antibiotics can make you more susceptible to ruptures.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendon Injury
The classic symptom of an Achilles tendon rupture is the inability to rise up on your toes. You may often experience a “popping” or “snapping” sound with severe pain, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle region, followed by bruising of the area. If the tendon is partially torn and not ruptured, pain and swelling may be mild.
Andrew Ebert, M.D.
Board-Certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot & ankle care for active patients, athletes, & adults across Austin & Leander.
Andrew Ebert, M.D., is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute, providing comprehensive orthopedic care to teens and adults in Austin and Leander Texas, and throughout Travis County.
Diagnosis of Achilles Tendon Injury
The diagnosis of a torn or ruptured Achilles tendon starts with a physical examination of the affected area. Thompson test may be performed where the calf muscle is pressed with you lying on your stomach to check whether the tendon is still connected to the heel or not. In certain cases, an ultrasound or MRI scan may be ordered for a clear diagnosis.
Treatment of Achilles Tendon Injury
The main objective of treatment is to restore the normal physiology of the Achilles tendon so you can perform your normal activities.
Treatment of a torn or ruptured Achilles tendon includes non-surgical or surgical methods. Immediately following a torn or ruptured Achilles tendon you should employ the R.I.C.E. method as follows:
- Rest the injured leg.
- Ice packs should be applied at the site of injury to prevent swelling.
- Apply compression bandages to the injured area to prevent swelling.
- Elevate the injured foot to reduce swelling.
Other non-surgical methods involve casting the injured area for six weeks for the ruptured tendon to reattach itself and heal. After removal of the cast, physical therapy is recommended to prevent stiffness and restore lost muscle tone.
Indications for Achilles Tendon Repair
Surgery may be recommended especially for competitive athletes, those who perform physical work, or in instances where the tendon re-ruptures.
Surgery is contraindicated if you have unhealthy skin, an active infection, are diabetic, smoke and lead a sedentary lifestyle, and are unable to confer with the requirements of postoperative recovery.
Achilles Tendon Repair Procedure
The surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, under a nerve block and sedation. An incision is made at the back of your leg. Your surgeon will stitch the torn tendon back together with strong sutures. Your surgeon may reinforce the Achilles tendon with other tendons depending on the extent of the tear. If the tendon has avulsed or pulled off the heel bone, your surgeon will reattach the tendon to the heel bone.
Postoperative Care following Achilles Tendon Repair
Following surgery, your leg will be placed in a cast or splint from your toes to just below your knee. You will be advised not to bear weight on your operated foot and will be prescribed crutches or a walker to help you move around. You will be prescribed a boot or cast after about 2 to 6 weeks, following which you will be allowed to bear your full weight on your leg. You will be advised physical therapy to regain strength and movement in your ankle and calf muscles. You will be able to regain full movement by 6 months and complete recovery in a year.
Complications of Achilles Tendon Repair
As with all surgical procedures, Achilles tendon repair may be associated with certain complications such as infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and blood clots.
Why Choose Dr. Andrew Ebert for Achilles Tendon Repair in Austin & Leander?
Patients across Austin and Leander choose Dr. Andrew Ebert for Achilles tendon treatment because of his:
- Board-Certified expertise in orthopedic and sports-related injuries
- Advanced experience in Achilles tendon repair and reconstruction
- Personalized care plans based on lifestyle and activity goals
- Emphasis on minimally invasive techniques when appropriate
- Structured rehabilitation protocols for optimal recovery
- Commitment to restoring strength, mobility, and long-term function
Achilles Tendon Injury & Repair FAQs
What are the common signs of an Achilles tendon rupture?
A sudden “pop” in the back of the ankle, severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty standing on toes are common signs.
Can Achilles tendon injuries heal without surgery?
Yes, partial tears and some ruptures can be treated non-surgically with casting, bracing, and physical therapy depending on the patient’s needs.
Who needs Achilles tendon surgery?
Surgery is often recommended for athletes, physically active individuals, or patients with complete ruptures or re-ruptures.
How long does recovery take after Achilles tendon repair?
Initial healing takes a few weeks, with gradual weight-bearing. Full recovery and return to sports may take 6–12 months.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes, rehabilitation is essential to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Schedule Your Achilles Tendon Consultation in Austin & Leander
If you are experiencing Achilles tendon pain, swelling, or a sudden injury, early evaluation can make a significant difference in recovery and long-term outcomes.
Andrew Ebert, M.D. provides expert care for Achilles tendon injuries in Austin and Leander, offering advanced treatment options to help you return to pain-free movement.
Don’t delay your recovery.
Call today or request an appointment Online to schedule your consultation and begin your path to healing.
Dr. Ebert is dedicated to helping patients regain confidence in movement and return to their active lifestyles.
