Tendon • sport • push-off
Achilles tendon: tendinopathy and rupture
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Common problems include chronic tendinopathy and acute or chronic rupture, which require different treatment approaches.
What symptoms may suggest this condition?
- Tendinopathy: pain and stiffness at the insertion or a few centimetres above the heel.
- Rupture: sudden pain, a feeling of being struck behind the ankle and weak push-off.
- In chronic cases, tendon thickening and progressive limitation in sport.
How is the diagnosis confirmed?
Diagnosis is primarily clinical. Ultrasound or MRI can define tendon quality, lesion location and rupture extent when this affects treatment strategy.
Is surgery always necessary?
Tendinopathy is initially managed with load modification and progressive strengthening. For acute rupture, non-operative functional treatment can be an option in selected patients when a structured protocol is feasible.
When should surgery be discussed?
Surgery may be considered for tendinopathy that remains symptomatic despite prolonged non-operative care, selected acute ruptures, or chronic ruptures that may require reconstruction. Open or minimally invasive techniques are tailored to the lesion.
Source patient : AOFAS / AAOS. General information, to be adapted to each clinical situation.
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