It’s possible to be active inside at a gym, playing games on indoor courts or fields, or working out with indoor equipment. However, there’s nothing quite like the outdoors and how it can refresh your activities. The Andrew Jackson State Park in Lancaster is one of those great outdoor locations where you can go to play games, be active, and still enjoy nature. Just make sure you take care of your lower limbs—too much pressure and activity on a weak foot could contribute to Achilles ruptures.

Achilles ruptures are complete tears in the big tendon that attaches your calf muscle to your heel bone. This tendon is largely responsible for your ability to push off the ground and walk normally. Tearing it is not only painful, but it dramatically weakens your lower limbs. This needs to be treated properly so the tendon heals, otherwise it may develop chronic pain and instability.

There are both conservative and surgical approaches to treating Achilles tendon tears. Which one will be most effective depends entirely on your unique feet and the extent of your injury. Conservative treatments are most successful with minor, partial tears. Your foot will be immobilized in a cast or brace to hold it still so you don’t strain the tendon. You will need to take a break from all hard-impact activities. Once the tear has healed, you may need physical therapy to recondition your feet for pressure.

For more serious or complete ruptures, surgery is the better option. The torn ends of the tissue will be surgically reattached. Then your foot will be immobilized in a cast or brace while your foot recovers. Most likely you’ll need to avoid all weight-bearing for a time so the tissues can repair. After a while, you’ll be able to start walking on the affected foot again. Then you can begin rehabilitating the lower limbs. You may still need to make changes to your shoes or start wearing orthotics to help protect the tendon.

Achilles ruptures are serious injuries that deserve prompt attention. Don’t wait to investigate and take care of this condition. If you’re concerned you may have torn your Achilles, let Carolina Podiatry Group help you. Make an appointment with us by calling two of our South Carolina offices: (803) 285-1411 for Lancaster, or (803) 548-FEET for Indian Land.