Achilles Tendon Ruptured or Torn

Achilles Tendon Ruptured or Torn? Did you know that the Achilles Tendon is the thickest and strongest tendon in the body? Imagine a rupture or a tear!

Well, I sure didn't know that the Achilles Tendon, my Achilles Tendon, is the thickest and strongest tendon in the body ... well, not until I began my research into this tendon. And, you could really fool me about it being the strongest! You see, I was doing some chores around the house ... specifically standing on my tippy toes and doing a lot of reaching to wipe the huge bathroom mirror over the his and hers sinks.

As I reached for the very top of the mirror, I HEARD and FELT a loud snap in the back of my left ankle! It was the strangest sound; rather 'reedy.' "Oh no! I can't believe I tore my Achilles Tendon!" Can you believe that? "Oh no!" I thought, "I'm just recovering from surgery for excision of a Morton's Neuroma in my right foot!" I surely don't need to have a torn Achilles Tendon in my other foot! You know?

P.S. We opted today to feature a creative and artsy picture of a pair of ankles with a cute bunny. You see, there isn't much to see on the outside of one's ankle [like mine] to show you a torn Achilles Tendon. It's the surgery that gets pretty graphic. We've not yet had surgery. Just been wearing the boot off and on.

Photo Credit: Ooooops by Helena Marroqui.

The Achilles Tendon Poll
Please be sure to answer our poll question! Have you ever suffered from an injury to your Achilles Tendon?

1. Achilles tendon rupture -- complete
2. Achilles tendon rupture -- partial
3. Achilles tendinitis
4. Achilles tendinosis
5. None of the above

This book covers the treatment and rehabilitation of Achilles tendon injuries. It is intended as a comprehensive guide to managing adult patients with Achilles tendon problems. All medical professionals caring for adult with foot and ankle problems are the intended audience. Additionally, orthopedic residents and fellows, as well as podiatry trainees, can learn how to correctly care for the Achilles tendon.

This techniques-oriented text is a comprehensive guide to managing Achilles tendon problems. Readers learn the latest less invasive and nonoperative treatment approaches, in addition to traditional treatments, from internationally renowned contributors. Introductory chapters provide essential background on basic anatomy, physiology, and pathomechanics.

Subsequent sections cover the spectrum of Achilles tendon injuries. Acute and chronic conditions are addressed, as well as problems specific to both adolescents and adults. The book also takes a practical approach to sports training in relation to the role of the Achilles. Rehabilitation is highlighted with an emphasis on quicker return to play. Case studies tie the book together and aid with the ready application of concepts to daily practice. ~ The Achilles Tendon: Treatment and Rehabilitation

Oh My to a Torn Achilles Tendon!
You know, it is always something!

It was just nine months after I had Morton's Neuroma surgery on my right foot that my left torn Achiles Tendon continued to be problematic. I have battled the issues with the chronic tears to my Achilles Tendon for more than a few years. It really doesn't seem that I will ever be a runner!

In 2011, I had two additional foot surgeries; starting with a bunionectomy of the right foot first. That surgery went fairly well. In a little over 90 days from that surgery, I had bunionectomy of my left foot. That was a bit more challenging for me in that I got a screw in the joint. Since the surgery, we tried to remove the screw without any luck. I am still careful with my recovering torn Achilles Tendon and sure hope that I don't need MORE surgery!

Royce Medical Equalizer Premium Air Walker

This is very comfortable -- what I've worn for my torn Achilles Tendon! Enjoy comfort and mobility while recovering from a lower-leg injury with the Royce Medical Equalizer Premium Air Walker! This product offers you the support you need with the comfort you desire, while allowing you to make the transition from crutches to walking unassisted with less discomfort.

The Royce Medical Equalizer Premium Air Walker has been shown to be effective when used with severe ankle sprains, stable lower extremity fractures, soft tissue injuries, and as part of a rehabilitation program. The air walker's patented pneumatic system allows you to find the ideal level of compression and a custom fit, and allows it to comfortably accommodate the changing levels of swelling that occur during the healing and rehabilitation process.

The user-adjustable aircells can be easily inflated or deflated using the blue air bladder at the top of the brace. The Equalizer Premium Air Walker's unique lightweight design, padding, and aircells help to give you a natural, comfortable gait while healing from your injury. The air walker is universally designed to fit your left or right foot.~ Royce Medical Equalizer Premium Air Walker - Large AW0800


In mid December 2007
I had surgery to excise a Morton's Neuroma! When it rains, it pours ... I've also had another MRI of the other foot to rule-out another Morton's Neuroma!

Doctors appointment: February 21, 2008
Release: 8 weeks post-of Morton's Neuroma excision. I had looked forward to this appointment for the past 4 weeks. However, in the meantime, I experienced difficulty with my left foot. I was having 2 separate problems … the classic symptoms of ANOTHER Morton’s Neuroma in my other foot AND the possibility of a torn Achilles tendon!

First, I was officially released being 8 weeks post-op for surgery to excise the Morton’s Neuroma in my right foot. As I’m a multi-tasker ;-), I used my visit to discuss the problems with my left foot. I had mentioned at my prior visit that I was feeling symptoms in my left foot too for a Morton’s Neuroma!

The doctor felt my ankle and mentioned that my Achilles tendon felt thin. He performed a number of manipulations and pressed on various parts of my ankle, asking did it bruise or swell. 3 x-rays of my left foot were taken and I left waiting to be scheduled for an MRI!

MRI: February 22, 2008
Wow ... scheduled the very next day! I was scheduled very quickly for an MRI of my left foot and ankle … pretty amazing that they got me in for the very next day. I had to wait about 1-1/2 hours for my MRI as it seems someone before me either moved during their MRI or the lady in front of me was a last minute schedule.

Another interesting thing I noted is that I’ll probably be billed as 2 separate MRIs … one for the ankle [Achilles Tendon] and the other for the foot [Morton's Neuroma] !!

Doctors appointment: February 28, 2008
MRI Results are in ... There is a chronic partial tear of the Achilles tendon. I have been ordered to begin wearing a Royce Medical orthopedic boot immediately for the next 4 weeks. Follow-up appointment was scheduled for 3 weeks since my doctor is vacationing on the 4th week!

Doctors appointment: April 9, 2008

After 6 weeks in the Royce boot! Well, today was D-day in finding out my progress wearing the Royce boot for approximately 6 weeks. My Achilles tendon definitely is improved to the point that my doctor opts to release me.

My instructions are to wear shoes with a bit of a heel — perhaps 2 to 2-1/2″ heels — rather than flats like I have been wearing. He tells me to be particularly careful of steps, going up and coming down, along with jumping. I haven’t got any plans for that type of exercise, so I should be OK.

However! We are taking a wait and see attitude on my Mortons Neuroma as to whether surgery WILL be scheduled. He said, “Call me when you decide you need it!”

Oh No! Surgery?
The prospect of surgery to repair a torn Achilles Tendon is scary when I see the pictures and videos!

Drop me a line -- Had any Achilles Tendon issues?

Fast forward to today -- I am still plagued by my Achilles Tendon! I sure could use the morale support of my readers as I tackle the next phase of my foot care ... hopefully I won't need surgery to repair the Achilles tendon! But, I'll probably be having surgery for another excision of a Morton's Neuroma!

History: Achilles Tendon : Ruptured or Torn was originally created on Squidoo by JaguarJulie on February 22, 2008. Highest lensrank ever achieved: #388 overall. Lens #288 in the quest for Giant Squid 300 Club.

Top Ten Countdown of Best Bags Ever

Top Ten Countdown of Best Bags Ever! This is a Top Ten Countdown of the very Best Bags ever! I performed all my own research over the past several years to prepare this page. This page of a top ten countdown is my own summary.

I am a self-described bag-a-holic as I own a few hundred bags, have bought and sold bags online for a number of years, and search for bags everyday. To us ladies, the bag is an essential component of our wardrobe! We have got to have the right bag to go with our new outfit ... plus a pair of shoes!

This lens presents my original interpretation of the "Best Bags" -- no matter what the price -- as I see them. Trust me as this is a tough task to present my Top Ten as it is like comparing apples with oranges or trying to pick your favorite child!

By the way! Do you see that I authored this lens in April 2006? I was talking about top ten countdowns and the "best" of something when I was a brand new lensmaster! I'd say I was getting off on the right foot right from the start; wouldn't you? Think about how many lenses you have seen which talk about "top ten" and "best" of something! There; the cat is out of the bag, so to speak!

It is a Top Ten Countdown of the very Best Bags!</b> 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 !!!

Photo Credit: CAVALCANTI Italian Light Orange Calf Leather Designer Tote Handbag. Love it!

The Best Bags Reader Poll Quick, how many bags do you OWN? Answer me this ... Can you count that high? Over 50 -- OMG Maybe 40-50 Conservatively 30-40 Not THAT many 20-30 A Reasonable 10-20 Oh, 10 or Less ONLY one !!!

What Inspired Me to Do the Research
And report my fashion findings to my readers ...

I was inspired to write this lens after all my years of experience with handbags. I've seen the use of confusing terminology to describe handbags and figured if I was confused, so must a lot of other people be confused.

According to Wikipedia:
inspired: having excellence through inspiration;
replica: an exact copy;
counterfeit: a non-genuine article;
mirror image: an image that is reversed from left to right, as it would appear if seen in a mirror; a reflection.

My interpretation of the above definitions makes me think that an "inspired" handbag or fashion item is more acceptable than say a "replica" or "mirror image." After all, don't we usually hear from the red carpet designers the day after the Academy Awards when they are creating their "inspired" fashions?


The Top Ten Countdown of Best Bags Ever
It was a scientific analysis of the designer handbag market by JaguarJulie

#10 Fendi Canvas/Patent Eyelet Bag $1,400 - This is the Fendi Canvas/Patent Eyelet Bag which has great “classic” appeal because of it’s contrasting colors. It gives the appearance of a black and white handbag that makes it a very versatile accessory.

The canvas style has patent leather piping and logo trim with eyelet detail and calfskin bottom. From the Resort 2007 Collection. Brass hardware, topstitching. Double rope shoulder straps, with 8″ drop. Inside buckle closure. One inside zip pocket and canvas lining.

It’s a great size at 19″ wide X 13″ high X 7-1/4″ deep. Yep — another made in Italy handbag!

#9 Versace Metallic Zip Bowler $3,165 - The Versace Metallic Zip Bowler handbag is super trendy because of the dome Muse-like shape and the bronze color. It’s hair-calf too!

Tonal patent leather trim. Gold-tone hardware. Top handles with rings; zip top. Two front zip pockets. Logo plate on front. It’s 15-7/10″ high x 11-4/5″ wide x 4-7/10″ deep.

And, best of all, it’s made in Italy.

#8 Louis Vuitton Mahina $3,750 - The Louis Vuitton Mahina handbag is super stylish and very roomy. Every woman’s wardrobe needs a white or light-colored handbag and this one fits the ticket to a tee!

It’s soft and luxurious leather that is perforated by a monogram design. It’s 32.2″ x 16.5″ x 11.4″.

#7 Dolce & Gabbana Borsa A Spalla Bag $1,795 - I love the classic style of the Dolce & Gabbana Borsa A Spalla Bag!

It’s luscious pebbled leather gleams with silver hardware and a shining removable chain strap. 4″ double handle drop. 12″ detachable shoulder strap. Magnetic snap closure. Two exterior magnetic snap compartments. Interior holds one zip and one cell pocket. Signature leopard print silk lining.

It’s another somewhat roomy bag at 16″ wide x 11″ high x 3-1/2″ deep. You guessed it … it’s made in Italy.

#6 Givenchy Large Patent Nightingale $1,695 - The Givenchy Large Patent Nightingale has been picked as the #1 bag for this top ten list because of it’s style, affordability, and celebrity appeal.

For the price, it’s a lot of bang and classic style.

This is the larger satchel in patent leather. With two leather handles and detachable shoulder strap. Black or brown.

#5 Gucci Indy Bag $2,495 - This is the Gucci Indy large top handle bag with single handle, detachable shoulder strap, engraved gucci script logo, tassels with bamboo detail, metal plates, studs, inside zip pocket, and cell phone pocket.

It’s fairly roomy at 18.9″ long x 5.5″ wide x 13″ high. There are a variety of color combinations–this one is black/bronze degrade patent leather with dark gold hardware that is a website exclusive from www.gucci.com.

#4 Bottega Veneta Knot $1,100 - Every woman needs a clutch bag and this is such a perfect and affordable little number.

It’s the Bottega Veneta Knot that is leather lined with a nappa trim. The body is a silk satin and it measures 7″ x 2″ x 4″. The color is Nero or black.

#3 Alexander McQueen Elvie $1,195 - This is the Alexander McQueen Elvie bag that is antique gold leather.

It has an appealing shape with a lot of bling styling. I love that domed handle. It is like carrying a piece of jewelry!

The metallic gold is super hot and trendy!

#2 Chloe Paddington Leather Satchel $1,800 - The Chloé Paddington Leather Satchel has been a celebrity favorite for several seasons … that’s why it’s made the Top Ten list!

It’s a classic bag with elegant lines, accented with studs and the signature Chloé padlock and key ornaments. Topstitching; buckle strap detail at sides; double top handles; double silver top zip and tab closure; one inside zip pocket; standing feet on bottom; canvas lining.

It’s fairly roomy at 17″ wide by 12-1/4″ high by 7″ deep. It’s also made in Italy.

#1--TIE!!! Valentino Patent Side Bow Tote $1,795 - This tote bag by Valentino is adorable and hot.

The red is a super trendy color, not to mention the patent leather is so in.

Tonal topstitching. Gold-tone hardware.

Top handles with rings. Bow detail across front. Logo plate detail. Made in Italy.

#1--TIE!!! Valentino Leopard Side Bow Shopper $2,495 - From the dramatic bow to the head-to-toe, dripping-in-leopard ponyhair exterior, this purse is too showy to be even remotely practical.

Leopard-printed ponyhair with a dramatic bow, gold hardware, and bright red logo plate.

7-3/4″ double handle drop (hand carry like the 2nd photo or It can also carry in the shoulder but with light clothing). Magnetic snap closure. 3 compartments – middle one with V-zipper closure. Red polyester satin lining.

I love the size of this 14″ wide x 15-1/2″ high x 7″ deep. It’s also made in Italy!

Contenders and Honorable Mention for Best Bags Ever!
These designer handbags almost made the countdown!

"Top Ten" Contender: Valentino Couture Bag $1,950 - I seriously want this bag!!! I’ve got to have it! Here it is, another Valentino — it’s the Valentino Couture Bag.

Soft nappa leather with woven and gathered details. Braided top handles, 6-1/2″ drop. Top zip closure. Logo hardware. Standing feet. Inside zip pocket. Cotton canvas lining.

It’s super roomy at 26″wide x 16″ high x 9″ deep. And, it’s made in Italy.

"Top Ten" Contender: Valentino Maison Studded Satchel $2,495 - This is a beautiful and classic Valentino Maison Studded Satchel.

Beautifully textured in hand-tucked calfskin with allover golden stud accents. Double top handles, 6″ drop. Double top zip closure. Inside zip pocket. Cotton canvas lining.

A perfect size of 15″ wide x 11-1/2″ high x 4-1/2″ deep. It’s made in Italy.

"Top Ten" Contender: Valentino Tuxedo Nappa Frame Bag $1,795 - Another yummy Valentino handbag — it’s the Valentino Tuxedo Nappa Frame Bag. As I’m a fan of the “structured” classic handbag, this one fits that to a tee!

Pintucked and bow accents give this soft nappa leather bag a tuxedo style. Contrast stitching detailing. Goldtone logo plaque. Double top handles, 6-1/2″ drop. Magnetic frame closure. Inside zip pocket. Cotton canvas lining.

It’s a perfect size of 16″ wide x 13″ high x 4″ deep. Yep, it’s made in Italy.

"Top Ten" Contender: Prada Tessuto Gauffre Tote $2,120 - This is so yummy and hot! It’s the Prada Tessuto Gauffre Tote.

Nappa gaufre tote with detachable shoulder strap.

It’s 10-1/4″ wide x 13″ high x 5″ deep.

Yep–it’s made in Italy.

"Top Ten" Contender: Marc Jacobs Patchwork Carolyn Satchel $1,250 - This is the adorable Marc Jacobs Patchwork “Carolyn” Satchel in Ivory.

Large leather patchwork satchel with double handles. Top zip closure. Inside zip, cell and additional pockets. Lined.

It’s a great size of 11-1/2″ high x 16″ wide x 5-1/2″ deep with a 5″ drop. It’s imported from Italy.

Honorable Mention: Vamp Bags Vicki $200 - There are a lot of well-known brand name handbags that are coveted, from Chloe to Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci to name just a few. But, I’m turning the spotlight on an interesting handbag I came across on eBags.

Vamp Bags Vicki is three bags in one. Vicki goes from the clutch to market bag to shoulder bag in just moments. It has a top flap entry with zipper closure, two slide interior pockets, oversized exterior pocket, faux leather material with faux suede lining, removable strap with polished silver hooks, and large silver O Rings for handles or decoration. It’s 13″ x 11″ x 1″ with a 25″ linear length.

You’ll find it at eBags for just a smidge over $200.00. What a deal.

Honorable Mention: Fossil Sedona Satchel $118 - As you probably already figured out, I’m crazy about RED handbags. The Fossil Sedona Satchel handbag would be a contender in my Top Ten for 2007 for lower range handbags as it is classic, stylish and ever so affordable at only $118.00!

And, it’s Italian leather making it ever so desirable.

It has hand stitching detail with a top zip closure, one main interior compartment with three pockets plus a removable shoulder strap. It’s 8.25″ x 8″ x 3″.

Spotlight Bag: Isabella Fiore - OMG! I was just browsing the handbag listings on eBay and came across a Hermes Birkin with a BIN of $46,999.99!!! If that’s a little too pricey for you, there’s always another for only $40,999.99 or $39,999.99. Call me crazy, but that’s a totally ridiculous price for a handbag–that’s more than my car–well actually, I could have both my car in two different colors!

Well, to get back down to earth–I’m a typical woman who has got oodles of handbags AND shoes. You know, I’ve just got to coordinate with my outfits. Naturally, my “favorite” handbag tends to change with the seasons. Hence, this “spotlight” segment to highlight that one particular bag that’s caught my eye; well, for the moment! ;-)

OK … drum roll, it’s the Isabella Fiore Snake Charmer Calco Penelope Handbag in a deep turquoise. It’s a snakeskin embossed leather bag that has beautiful detailing and pretty tassels. Sorry to be a tease, but I think it’s next to impossible to find this bag new today. I’ll try and find another Spotlight Bag that you can actually buy. ;-)

2006 Top Ten Countdown of the Best Bags Ever
It's a historical archive study of the best bags by JaguarJulie

#10 BCBG Max Azria Signature Hobo
#9 Prague Leather Frame Flower Bag
#8 Fendi Spy Bag
#7 Dooney & Bourke Nile Medium Duffle Bag
#6 Brighton Corazon Heart Handle
#5 Dooney & Bourke Pink Ostrich Domed Satchel
#4 Chanel Black Hobo
#3 Banana Republic Tangiers
#2 La Tour Eiffel Papillon Bow Barrel
#1 Givenchy Baguette

Hungarian trivia ... Bag in Hungarian, is táska which comes from the Italian tasca. Why Hungarian trivia? Jaguar Julie is a proud writer celebrating her Hungarian heritage.

What are your best bags? Hope you enjoyed the top ten countdown of best bags! So, what are your favorite handbags? Do you own hundreds like I do? What would be your “Top Ten?” Do you collect handbags? I’d love to hear from you.

History: Top Ten Countdown : Best Bags Ever! was originally created on Squidoo by JaguarJulie on April 18, 2006. Highest lensrank ever achieved: #174 overall. Lens #18 in the quest for Giant Squid 100 Club Charter Member 2007.