Achilles Tendon RuptureWhat is an Achilles tendon rupture?
(Continued from Page 2) An Achilles tendon rupture occurs when the tendon attaching the calf muscle to the heel is ruptured. This is a common injury, most often seen in middle-age, male, “weekend warriors.” What are the symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture? An Achilles tendon rupture is a traumatic injury that causes sudden pain behind the ankle. Patients may hear a ‘pop’ or a ‘snap,’ and will almost always say they feel as though they have been kicked in the heel (even though no one has kicked them). Patients have difficulty pointing their toes downward, and may have swelling and bruising around the tendon. Which patients sustain Achilles tendon ruptures? Achilles tendon ruptures are most commonly seen in men who are around the age of 30-40 years old. About 15-20% of patients have symptoms of Achilles tendonitis prior to sustaining an Achilles tendon rupture, but the vast majority of patients have no history of prior Achill
