Achilles tendon ruptures

Abstract

The achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and its patency is crucial to proper operation of the ankle and foot. Rupture of the achilles tendon is a medical emergency. Tendon rupture may be precipitated by achilles tendinitis, but usually it occurs as a result of traumatic injury that causes abrupt dorsiflexion of the foot. Older persons usually sustain a tendon rupture as a result of a fall or sudden stress placed on the tendon, while ruptures in younger patients usually are caused by strenuous physical activity. There are several treatment options for tendon repair, and these must be tailored to the patient's needs and the severity of his or her injury.