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If the symptoms of an Achilles tendon inflammation are extremely severe, if the affected person is a competitive athlete or if the Achilles tendon is already chronically inflamed, surgery is recommended as an alternative to conservative treatment. There are basically two possible approaches to surgery for Achilles tendon inflammation: 1. removal of connective tissue and inflamed substructures In this operation, the surgeon removes the chronically thickened tissue on the Achilles tendon, including affected bursae and connective tissue. 2.
(Artificial) reinforcement of the Achilles tendon If the inflamed Achilles tendon is already torn, a possible alternative may be to reinforce the damaged tendon. In this case, the surgeon will suture the Achilles tendon or replace it completely with plastic. To do this, he uses either the body’s own material, such as tissue from the calf muscles, or a synthetic plastic.
No matter which surgical procedure is chosen, the chances of recovery are very good with both methods. The Achilles tendon must be completely immobilized in a special splint for 4-8 weeks after the operation. Physiotherapy is usually performed on the day of the operation and then becomes an integral part of rehabilitation.
Duration
The duration of an Achilles tendon inflammation always depends on the current progress of the disease and how long the problems have existed. In the early stages of the disease, it may be sufficient to refrain from sports for 1-2 weeks and at the same time perform special stretching and strengthening exercises for the Achilles tendon. However, if the disease has existed for a longer time and is more advanced or even an operation is necessary, it can be that the affected person has to fight several weeks or even months with the Achilles tendon inflammation and its aftercare.
Summary
All in all, Achilles tendonitis is a preventable, but easily treatable disease.The lengthy healing process in complicated cases requires a lot of patience and stamina from the patients. However, if the exercises and advice learned during physiotherapy are followed and applied consistently, the patient has a good chance of recovery and at the same time has the tools and body awareness to prevent further problems. In addition counts above all the extensive warming up and stretching before and after sporty activity. It is also important that you do not simply accept the pain of existing problems, but that you have the cause clarified by a doctor.
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