Testing for Achilles Tendon Injuries

Achilles Tendon Injuries Test – The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the lower leg, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is essential for walking, running, and jumping. Injuries to the Achilles tendon, such as ruptures, tears, or tendonitis, can significantly impact mobility. Proper testing is crucial for diagnosing the extent of the injury and determining the appropriate treatment. Below are some common tests used to diagnose Achilles tendon injuries, including the Thompson test, pinch test, and other methods used by healthcare providers.

Achilles Tendon Rupture and Tear Diagnosis

1. Thompson Test: The Thompson test is a simple and commonly used clinical test to determine if there is a rupture of the Achilles tendon. In this test, the patient lies face down with their foot hanging off the edge of the examination table. The clinician then squeezes the calf muscles. If the Achilles tendon is intact, the foot will plantarflex (point downward) when the calf is squeezed. If the tendon is ruptured, the foot will remain stationary, indicating a lack of function in the tendon.
2. Pinch Test for Achilles Tendonitis: A pinch test may be used to assess for Achilles tendonitis. The doctor will press gently on the Achilles tendon to check for pain or swelling, which can indicate inflammation of the tendon. Pain during this test suggests the presence of tendonitis, a condition that involves inflammation due to overuse or strain.
3. Test for Torn Achilles Tendon: When a complete tear or rupture is suspected, a more comprehensive examination is necessary. Ultrasound or MRI imaging can confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the Achilles tendon injury. If a tear is present, further tests, including physical exams like the Thompson test, help to understand the full extent of damage.
4. Partial Tear of the Achilles Tendon: A partial tear of the Achilles tendon can be more challenging to diagnose through simple physical tests. In some cases, MRI scans or ultrasound imaging are required to visualize the degree of the tear. Physical tests like the Thompson test may also be used to gauge the extent of functional loss in the tendon.
5. Other Diagnostic Tests: Additional diagnostic methods like X-rays may be used to rule out bone fractures near the tendon and to assess for degenerative changes in the tendon, such as tendonitis or tendinopathy.

Interlinking Curapod with Achilles Tendon Injury Management

Once an Achilles tendon injury has been diagnosed through clinical tests and imaging, treatment options vary based on the severity of the injury. Curapod, a device that uses electrical stimulation, can play a significant role in the rehabilitation process for individuals recovering from an Achilles tendon rupture, tear, or tendonitis.

• Pain Relief: Curapod can help alleviate pain associated with Achilles tendon injuries by providing non-invasive electrical stimulation. This electrical stimulation helps to block pain signals, reducing discomfort from the injury.
• Muscle Recovery and Relaxation: One of the major challenges of an Achilles tendon injury is muscle weakness and tightness around the injured tendon. Curapod helps in muscle relaxation, stimulating blood circulation and reducing muscle spasms. This promotes faster healing and restores mobility in the affected area.
• Enhanced Healing: The electrical impulses provided by Curapod can also improve circulation, which is vital for healing injured tissues. By enhancing blood flow to the Achilles tendon, the device supports faster recovery and aids in the regeneration of damaged tissues.
• Complementary to Rehabilitation: For individuals undergoing physical therapy as part of their recovery, Curapod can be used to complement rehabilitation exercises. By relieving pain and improving muscle relaxation, Curapod enables patients to engage more effectively in stretching and strengthening exercises, which are crucial for restoring mobility and preventing future injuries.

References

1. Mayo Clinic, 2025. Achilles Tendon Rupture: Symptoms and Causes. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendon-rupture/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20359472 [Accessed 25 February 2025].
2. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), 2025. Achilles Tendon Injury: Symptoms and Treatment. Available at: https://www.aaos.org/diseases–conditions/Achilles-tendon-injury/ [Accessed 25 February 2025].
3. Spine-Health, 2025. Achilles Tendon Injury Symptoms and Treatment. Available at: https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/achilles-tendon-injury [Accessed 25 February 2025].