Achilles Tendon Pain

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. The calf muscles join together to form the Achilles Tendon. This tendon is very strong, but not very flexible. This means that the Achilles tendon can only stretch so far before it becomes inflamed or tears.

The two most common causes of Achilles tendon pain are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendonosis. While these conditions sound similar, they describe different problems—one more acute and the other more chronic.

The tears in your tendon fibers can cause a complete or partial break (or tear) in your tendon. You might hear a “pop” that seems to come from the back of your heel or calf. This may be a tendon rupture, which needs immediate medical attention

The diagnosis of achilles tendon pain is usually performed in the clinic exam. If a rupture is suspected, an MRI is usually performed.

Pain and inflammation and even a small tear can be treated without surgery. More severe tears or ruptures may require surgery to repair the tendon.