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from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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Achilles Tendon Rupture (Tear)

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and is used when you walk, run, and jump.

Although the Achilles tendon can withstand great stresses from running and jumping, it is vulnerable to injury. A rupture of the tendon is a tearing and separation of the tendon fibers so that the tendon can no longer perform its normal function.

This video animation provides information about the Achilles tendon, how it can be injured, and how injuries are treated — both nonsurgically and surgically.

 

Last Reviewed

February 2021

Contributed and/or Updated by

Stuart James Fischer, MD, FAAOS

AAOS does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or physicians referenced herein. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific orthopaedic advice or assistance should consult his or her orthopaedic surgeon, or locate one in your area through the AAOS Find an Orthopaedist program on this website.