What test is used to assess the integrity of the Achilles tendon?

The Thompson test is utilized to assess the integrity of the Achilles tendon, particularly for identifying a rupture. During this test, the patient lies prone with their feet off the edge of the examination table. The clinician then squeezes the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles at the calf. An intact Achilles tendon will respond with plantarflexion of the foot; if the tendon is ruptured, there will be little to no movement at the ankle, indicating a lack of functional connection between the muscles and the heel.

This test is particularly significant because a rupture of the Achilles tendon can lead to functional impairments in activities that involve walking, running, and jumping. The Thompson test is non-invasive, quick, and highly useful in clinical settings to effectively differentiate between an intact and ruptured tendon.

In contrast, the ankle anterior drawer test is primarily designed to assess the integrity of the anterior talofibular ligament, while the squeeze test is used to evaluate syndesmotic injuries in the ankle. Palmer’s test is not a recognized test for assessing any condition related to the Achilles tendon.