Achilles Tendon Tears/Ruptures

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body and can withstand forces of 1,000 pounds or more. It attaches the calf muscle to the heel bone and is integral in ankle motion. Although the tendon is very strong, it is prone to inflammation or in some situations tears and ruptures.

An achilles tear and rupture can be caused by different factors from overuse, spontaneous injury or underlying health condition.

The most common type of achilles rupture is due to injury:

• Traumatic twisting or pivoting
• Sudden stops or starts
• Sports-related injuries from strain, jumping or rapid resistance against the leg
• Falls
• Motor vehicle accidents

Other health factors can cause ruptures as well:

• Extreme tightness of the achilles tendon
• Medications
• Tendon disorders
• Weakness at insertion due to bone spurs

Signs of achilles rupture:

• Loss of strength in calf
• Unable to walk without pain or loss of balance
• Feeling a “pop” or “kick to the back of the leg”
• Loss of plantar flexion of the foot with calf squeezing

Treatment for achilles tendon ruptures are based upon time of injury, swelling, location along the achilles and size of tear. For best results of the repair and return to function with increased potential of little to no permanent deficits is to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

During your visit, your physician will test the site of a tear, strength and often will order further imaging (MRI) for extent of injury and how to plan your care, potential surgery and recovery.

Recovery from a small non-surgical partial tear to full rupture requiring surgical repair often has a similar timeline due to the nature of the tendon and the protection required to prevent recurrence of injury, however if significant rupture occurs, surgical repair can lead to better and stronger recovery. Recovery often requires casting, unloading of the foot, gradual return to walking and extensive physical therapy.