Why does the Achilles Tendon Rupture?
The Achilles tendon usually ruptures in males over the age of 30 who only occasionally engage in sports or a regular leg-conditioning program (Figure 2). The classic example is a middle-aged tennis player or weekend warrior who places too much stress on the tendon and experiences a tearing of the tendon. Spontaneous rupture of the Achilles tendon has been associated with inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, genetically determined collagen abnormalities, infectious diseases, and neurological conditions. Certain antibiotics and the use of corticosteroids have also been reported as predisposing factors. It is also suspected that genetic predisposition may also play a role.
