Hearing a pop behind your ankle after a crash
Insight from a foot and ankle surgeon and a physical therapist
The Achilles tendon links your calf muscles to your heel. It helps point the foot down as you walk or go up on your toes. A sudden force during a crash can tear it. Some people hear a pop or feel as if something hit them behind the ankle. Swelling and pain may come next. [1]
Some people can still move the foot, so moving it doesn’t rule out a tear. Get checked quickly. Treatment is easier to plan before the tendon shortens and forms scar tissue. [1]
Have the tendon tested
Tell your doctor exactly when you felt the pop or the weakness start. Mention any past tendon pain and any medicines that can affect tendons. The exam may include a squeeze of your calf. The doctor may also check how you do standing on the toes of the injured foot. Ultrasound or MRI may help if the diagnosis or the pattern of the tear is unclear. Ask if the tear is partial or complete. [1]
Weigh surgery against other options
Even a complete tear may be treated without surgery. Both surgical and nonsurgical care can be sound choices. It depends on the tear, your activity goals, your health and the rehab plan available where you live. [1]
Ask how each choice affects the chance of a new tear and of wound problems. Find out how each one changes your time in a boot and your return to work. At first, the boot usually keeps your foot pointed down. Do not take out wedges, stretch your calf or start walking before the plan says so. [1]
Keep an eye on the leg as it heals
Questions about the tear and the boot
- Is my tendon torn part of the way or all the way?
- What do I gain and give up with surgery versus nonsurgical care?
- What is my exact schedule for the boot and for walking?
Keep your boot plan where you'll see it
Store the boot instructions with the date of your next therapy visit. Put them somewhere you’ll see them every day. [1]
Sources and further reading
- 1American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Achilles tendon rupture
- 2NHS pulmonary embolism and leg clot symptoms
This is general education from foot and ankle surgery and physical therapy experts. There is more than one way to treat an Achilles tear. Your boot position and how you build up walking must match the plan you chose.
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