The Achilles tendon is a large band of fibrous tissue in the back of the ankle that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus).

Your Achilles tendon helps you point your foot downward, rise on your toes, and push off your foot as you walk.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a complete or partial tear of the Achilles tendon.

What causes Achilles tendon injury?

Ruptures are commonly caused by a sudden increase in the amount of stress on your Achilles tendon. Your tendon can be overextended and injured from:

• Increased physical activity
• Falling from a height
• Stepping on an uneven surface or stepping into a hole

Ruptures typically occur in areas of the tendon that receive less blood flow. This may weaken that part of the tendon, which also tends to degenerate with age.

Achilles tendon ruptures are most commonly seen in men. The injury is often linked to recreational activities and sports, but can also occur from other traumatic injuries.

What does it feel like?

Achilles tendon rupture is characterized by:

• Severe pain radiating from the heel
• Bruising on the heel
• Swelling
• Inability to walk properly on injured leg
• Difficulty pointing toes downward
• A popping or snapping sound during injury

In cases of partial rupture, foot mobility may only be slightly affected, but similar symptoms of pain, swelling, and bruising may exist.

How do I know if I have an Achilles tendon injury?

A physical examination by your doctor will help diagnose the injury and rule out underlying conditions or fracture.

Ultrasound can also be used to determine if the tendon has been ruptured.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is sometimes used to help determine if the injury is a full or partial rupture.

How is an Achilles tendon injury treated?

Achilles tendon rupture is repaired by:

• Surgery: The most common treatment for Achilles tendon rupture is surgery. The surgeon makes a small incision in the back of your lower leg and stitches the the torn tendon together. Depending on the severity of the tear, the repair may be reinforced with other tendons. Following surgery, patients typically wear a cast or boot for about six to eight weeks.

• Nonsurgical treatment: A cast is used, allowing the ends of your torn tendon to heal and reattach themselves. This avoids surgical risks like infection, but recovery takes longer and the risk of re-rupture of the tendon is high.

• Physical therapy: Your doctor may recommend rehabilitation with physical therapy exercises, which strengthen your leg muscles and Achilles tendon.

Treatment Videos

Watch an educational video about treatment for Achilles tendon injury.