LL TENDON INJURIES

TENDON INJURIES

Tendon injuries of lower limbs are common due to road traffic accidents, direct trauma etc.

SYMPTOMS

Patients will be unable to move the foot, toes and joints depending upon the level of injury.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

If the tendons are transected(cut) at any level, then it needs to be repaired primarily depending on the

condition of wound and soft tissue cover.

If there is a segment loss or gap in the ends of tendon then a tendon graft can bridge the gap taken from

various donor tendons available.

The above procedures are done under general anesthesia so need to get admitted for at least 2-3 days.

and will be followed up as outpatient.

After the procedure there will be a splintage applied to the affected limb for at least 4-6 weeks in order.

to prevent rupture of the repair due to forceful movements of the limb.

PHYSIOTHERAPY

During the splintage period patient would be asked to do gentle exercise of the affected limb inside the

splint under supervision then after 4-6 weeks off splint exercise will be taught to the patient. Splint will

be removed after 6-8 weeks’ time with increasing resistance exercises and weight bearing under

supervision till the muscle power gain and normal movements achieved and patient can weight bear and

walk easily.

COMPLICATIONS

Major ones are.

tendon rupture at repair site,

joint stiffness,

loosening of repair,

tightening of repair causing deformity etc.

Written by: Dr. Ali Adnan