The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. A ruptured Achilles tendon can result when too much force is applied to the tendon, usually during a sports activity or accident. Certain diseases and medications can weaken the Achilles tendon and make injury more likely, but more commonly, a weakened tendon comes from age or inactivity. People most at risk for a ruptured Achilles tendon are middle-aged, sedentary or mostly sedentary people who suddenly attempt a physically demanding activity for which the body is not ready. In most cases, a complete snap is more likely than a partial tear of the tendon.
Without the Achilles tendon, humans would not be able to run, jump, pivot, or even walk effectively. Due to the forces the tendon is subjected to during these movements, sports that involve a great deal of running, jumping, or pivoting are more likely than others to cause a ruptured Achilles tendon. This is more likely to occur in an individual who is engaging in activity beyond his or her normal activity level. Although a ruptured Achilles tendon is most commonly the result of a sports injury, accidents that suddenly and dramatically stretch the tendon, such as falling from a significant distance, can also cause a ruptured Achilles tendon.
Injuries and overuse of the tendons can lead to tendonitis, which is an injury or inflammation of the tendon. Some medications and diseases, including diabetes, can also weaken tendons throughout the body, causing tendinitis. Tendonitis can make a ruptured Achilles tendon more likely.
It is important to take precautions to prevent a ruptured Achilles tendon. The injury can be very painful and debilitating. Treatment of this condition usually requires surgery and an extended period of rest, followed by physical therapy to strengthen and re-stretch the tendon.
Most medical and fitness professionals agree that the best way to prevent a ruptured Achilles tendon is to stretch and warm up properly before exercising. Ensuring that the Achilles tendon is warmed up before exercise or sports makes it more flexible and less prone to injury. It is also very important to wear the right shoes for the specific sport or exercise being performed. If tendonitis or other injuries are suspected, stop exercising as this could worsen the damage and see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.