The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body — connecting your calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to your heel bone (calcaneus). It enables essential movements such as walking, running, and jumping. However, its strength also makes it prone to overuse and injury, particularly in active individuals and athletes.
Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed or irritated due to repetitive stress, while an Achilles rupture involves a partial or complete tear of the tendon fibers. Both conditions can cause severe pain and limit mobility, but with expert care, recovery is entirely possible.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide evidence-based diagnosis, personalized treatment, and comprehensive rehabilitation for Achilles tendon injuries to help patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas regain strength and function.
The Achilles tendon endures significant stress during physical activity. Over time, repetitive strain can lead to microtears and inflammation — a process known as tendinopathy. If left untreated, chronic tendonitis weakens the tissue, increasing the risk of rupture.
An Achilles rupture usually occurs during a sudden push-off movement — such as sprinting, jumping, or pivoting — especially when the tendon is already compromised. Patients often describe the injury as feeling like being “kicked in the back of the leg.”
Achilles Rupture Causes:
Risk Factors:
Achilles Tendonitis Symptoms:
Achilles Rupture Symptoms:
If a rupture is suspected, immediate medical attention is required to avoid long-term disability.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke performs a thorough evaluation to determine whether the injury is inflammatory, degenerative, or structural.
Diagnostic process includes:
Imaging:
Accurate diagnosis helps tailor treatment to the injury’s severity and patient’s activity goals.
Dr. Burke tailors each treatment plan based on the injury’s extent, patient age, activity level, and healing goals.
Non-Surgical Treatments (Primarily for Tendonitis or Partial Tears)
Most patients improve significantly within 4–6 weeks of consistent therapy and home care.
Surgical Treatments (for Full Ruptures or Refractory Tendonitis)
When the tendon is completely torn or fails to heal with conservative care, Dr. Burke may recommend surgical repair or reconstruction.
Surgical options:
These procedures restore normal length and tension to the tendon, allowing for a return to full activity with proper rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation goals:
Physical therapy begins soon after surgery (under guidance) to prevent stiffness and accelerate recovery.
With timely treatment, most patients regain full mobility and return to their pre-injury activity level. Neglected or untreated injuries can result in chronic pain, weakness, and limited ankle function.
Prevention tips:
Early care is key to preventing chronic degeneration or rupture.
You should contact Dr. Burke Orthopedics immediately if you experience:
Prompt treatment helps ensure optimal recovery and long-term tendon health.
If you’re suffering from heel pain, calf tightness, or a suspected tendon injury, professional care can help you heal properly and prevent future complications.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Achilles tendonitis and ruptures with cutting-edge regenerative and surgical care.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, helping patients restore mobility and confidence one step at a time.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon with advanced expertise in lower-leg and tendon repair.
