condition
Achilles tendon rupture
The Achilles tendon is a large tendon just above your heel that you can feel like a cord when you move your foot up and down. It’s the largest and strongest tendon in the body. If the tendon tears, or snaps, then this is called an Achilles tendon rupture. A rupture can be partial or total, depending on whether any of the tendon is still attached.
What can you find here?
More information
Achilles tendon rupture can occur at any age, but is more common between the ages of 30 and 50, and is more common in elite athletes. The injury commonly happens without warning and is described as feeling like being stabbed or kicked in the calf. You might hear a loud pop or snap at the time of injury, swelling and bruising between the heel and the calf, and difficulty moving the foot normally – it will be difficult to stand on your tip toes.
Caidr pharmacists' top tips
Initially, simple first aid is the best way to start. Rest and elevate the injured leg, ice the area (be sure not to place ice directly on skin, use something like a tea towel to protect the skin) and compress the injured area with an elastic bandage.
An Achilles tendon rupture is painful, and taking over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories is a good next step.
When should I see my doctor?
If you suspect that you have ruptured your Achilles tendon, you will need to seek urgent medical attention from your local emergency department. The condition is usually managed by hospital teams, and if you see your doctor, they will typically refer you to the hospital team.
What will my doctor do?
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, your medical history, and any relevant family medical history. They will then examine your calf and Achilles, performing different tests to confirm the possible rupture. Your doctor will commonly arrange some imaging such as an X-ray to exclude any bony injury, or an ultrasound scan to assess the Achilles tendon in more detail. If these can be done as an outpatient, you may be placed in a supportive boot or cast while waiting for the follow-up appointment where the results are discussed.
If a rupture is confirmed, the two options for treatment are surgery or functional bracing. The most common management is functional bracing, where the foot is placed in a boot for a number of weeks with small adjustments to allow the tendon to heal over time.
Was this helpful?
