Achilles Rupture in an Auto Accident
The Achilles tendon often referred to as the Achilles heel, is a band of muscular tissue on the back of the foot. It connects the heel of the foot to the lower leg. When people contract their Achilles tendon, it allows the foot to press downward. Some of the most common mechanisms of Achilles tendon ruptures include:
- A sudden “loading” of the foot during athletic activities, such as jumping or running.
- Trying to run up a flight of stairs too quickly.
- Trying to change direction quickly while moving.
- Having the foot pinned as the lower leg moves in a different direction, such as in a motor vehicle collision.
If the Achilles tendon ruptures, there is a good chance that the individual will require emergency surgery to repair the tendon. Sometimes, some complications could result from this injury.
Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Rupture
If someone suffers a rupture of his or her Achilles tendon in a motor vehicle accident, there are a few symptoms that might appear. Some of the most common signs of an Achilles rupture include:
- A loud “popping” sound associated with the traumatic injury
- Bruising that appears on the back of the foot
- Severe pain in that area
- An inability to walk
- A failure to press the foot downward, such as on the gas pedal
- A palpable bulge on the back of the heel in the calf area
Immediately after the injury, it is essential to seek medical care. A trained medical professional can quickly diagnose a tear of the Achilles tendon.
Treatment of an Achilles Rupture
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, often with a CT scan or an MRI, the treatment can begin. In the case of an incomplete rupture, an individual may be able to heal using ice, crutches, and a walking boot. The healing process could take a month or more. On the other hand, many ruptures of the Achilles tendon are complete and will require surgical repair. In this case, a trained surgeon will take the individual to the operating room and reattach the Achilles tendon to its proper location.
After the repair, most people will require extensive physical therapy to rehab the injury and regain the ability to walk. This process could take months.
Watch YouTube Video: Repairing an Achilles Rupture. In the following video, Dr. Jeremy Schwartz with Lee Health discusses the treatment for an Achilles rupture.
Contacting an Auto Accident Lawyer
A rupture of the Achilles tendon is a severe injury. Some individuals will make a quick recovery following the surgical procedure while others might have trouble walking again. This feeling of uncertainty can be stressful for a family. Because of this, it is prudent to meet with an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento. Your family might be owed a financial reward.
Sacramento Auto Accident Lawyers
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento Auto Accident Attorney. An Achilles tendon rupture in an auto accident is a serious injury that often requires surgical repair. If you or a family member has needed surgery to repair significant damage after a motor vehicle accident, please give me a call at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly legal advice.
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