The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It is a strong band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon plays a crucial role in walking, running, jumping, and standing on your toes. Because it is subjected to significant stress during everyday activities and sports, the Achilles tendon is vulnerable to injury. In severe cases, the tendon may become partially torn or completely ruptured. Its limited blood supply and constant exposure to tension can increase the risk of injury.
Individuals who participate in activities that involve sudden acceleration, stopping, or changes in direction are more likely to experience Achilles tendon injuries. Sports and activities such as running, gymnastics, dance, football, baseball, basketball, and tennis place added strain on the tendon. Other factors that may increase the risk of injury include wearing high heels, having flat feet, tight calf muscles or tendons, and taking certain medications, such as glucocorticoids.
One of the most common symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury is pain above the heel, especially when standing on your toes. If the tendon is ruptured, the pain is often severe and may be accompanied by swelling and stiffness in the affected area. Additional symptoms can include weakness in the ankle or lower leg, reduced range of motion, and difficulty walking or standing. Many people report hearing or feeling a popping sensation when the tendon tears.
If you believe you may have injured your Achilles tendon, it is important to seek an evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider or specialist. A physical examination and a series of diagnostic tests may be performed to determine the extent of the injury. One common assessment is the calf-squeeze test. During this test, the calf muscle on the unaffected leg is squeezed, causing the foot to move as the tendon pulls on the heel. The same test is then performed on the injured leg. If the Achilles tendon is torn, the foot may not move normally because the connection between the calf muscle and foot has been disrupted.
