Tendo Achilles Work-Place Injury

A 37-year-old man experienced a workplace injury while descending from a forklift. Initially, he felt slight pain, which progressively worsened over time, leading to a noticeable limp captured in a pre-treatment video. On an activity-based pain scale, he reported a 7 out of 10, while the pain at rest was rated at 1 out of 10.
The pain intensified during various activities, particularly while walking, ascending stairs, entering and exiting his car, staying stationary, and in the morning. However, the pain tended to ease as the day advanced and with movement.
Specific ankle movements, such as pointing toes upwards and downwards, triggered pain. There was tenderness at the Achilles tendon insertion point, accompanied by moderate swelling and no bruising.
The patient exhibited an Antalgic gait pattern, walking with a noticeable limp. He minimized weight-bearing on the affected foot, avoiding touching the heel to the ground while walking, and preferred keeping it elevated. This deliberate gait helped prevent stretching of the healing Achilles tendon, reducing pain during walking. The patient was advised to wear high-heeled shoes and work boots to prevent tendon stretching and facilitate recovery.
Despite the injury, the patient returned to work with modified duties to safeguard the healing tendon. Additionally, he was provided with an Achilles tendon supportive brace, which offered support, reduced pain during walking, and aided in decreasing swelling, particularly during work shifts due to its compressive fabric.