Back to Results
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Urgent
An Achilles tendon rupture is a partial or complete tear of the strong tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often occurs during sudden forceful activity such as jumping, running, or changing direction, but degeneration of the tendon can increase vulnerability. A person may feel or hear a sudden pop followed by pain, swelling, difficulty walking, and inability to push off normally with the affected foot. Prompt medical assessment is important because treatment decisions depend on the extent of the injury and the individual.
Body System
Legs Knees & Feet
When to Seek Medical Attention
An Achilles tendon rupture requires prompt medical assessment. Seek urgent care after a sudden pop or snapping sensation, sudden severe pain near the heel, swelling, or difficulty pushing off the foot or walking. Emergency assessment is appropriate when the injury is associated with major trauma, an open wound, severe bleeding, or loss of circulation or sensation.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
An Achilles tendon rupture is a partial or complete tear of the strong tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often occurs during sudden forceful activity such as jumping, running, or changing direction, but degeneration of the tendon can increase vulnerability. A person may feel or hear a sudden pop followed by pain, swelling, difficulty walking, and inability to push off normally with the affected foot. Prompt medical assessment is important because treatment decisions depend on the extent of the injury and the individual.
Symptoms 3
Foot Pain
Frequent Hunger
Increased Thirst
Causes 1
Achilles tendon rupture can occur when the tendon is suddenly subjected to a force greater than it can withstand. Common situations include pushing off forcefully, jumping, sprinting, or suddenly changing direction. A tendon weakened by age, repeated stress, inflammation, or certain medical conditions may be more vulnerable. Previous Achilles tendon problems can increase risk. Some medicines have also been associated with tendon injury. The rupture may occur in a previously symptomatic tendon or unexpectedly during activity.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Risk Factors
Risk factors for Achilles tendon rupture include participation in sports involving running or jumping, sudden increases in activity, inadequate conditioning, previous tendon problems, increasing age, and certain medicines or medical conditions associated with tendon weakness. Men in middle age who participate in recreational sports are commonly affected. Tight or weak calf muscles and repeated tendon stress may contribute. A gradual training program and appropriate conditioning can reduce some activity-related risks.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Achilles tendon rupture is usually diagnosed from the history and physical examination. The clinician may assess the ability to walk and push off and perform the Thompson test, in which compression of the calf normally produces movement of the foot. Ultrasound can help identify the location and extent of a tear, while MRI may be used when the diagnosis or degree of injury remains uncertain. Prompt diagnosis helps determine whether nonsurgical treatment or surgical repair is appropriate.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Achilles tendon rupture cannot always be prevented, but risk may be reduced by gradual increases in training, adequate warm-up, regular calf and lower-limb conditioning, and avoiding sudden large increases in exercise intensity
Proper footwear and appropriate recovery between demanding activities may also help
People with previous tendon problems should discuss safe progression of activity with a healthcare professional
Sudden Achilles pain or a popping sensation during activity should be assessed promptly rather than ignored
Prevention Guidance
Achilles tendon rupture cannot always be prevented, but risk may be reduced by gradual increases in training, adequate warm-up, regular calf and lower-limb conditioning, and avoiding sudden large increases in exercise intensity. Proper footwear and appropriate recovery between demanding activities may also help. People with previous tendon problems should discuss safe progression of activity with a healthcare professional. Sudden Achilles pain or a popping sensation during activity should be assessed promptly rather than ignored.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Protein-rich Foods
Support tendon repair
Vitamin C Foods
Support collagen formation
Fresh Fruits
Provide nutrients
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May delay healing
Processed Foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A partial or complete tear of the Achilles tendon.
Sudden forceful movement or sports injury.
Sudden heel pain and difficulty walking.
Some cases may require surgical repair.
Clinical examination and imaging tests.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.