The Achilles tendon is a robust band of fibrous tissue located at the back of the lower leg. It connects the powerful calf muscles—the gastrocnemius and soleus—to the heel bone, or calcaneus. This tendon is the thickest and strongest in the human body, playing a fundamental role in movements like walking, running, and jumping by enabling the foot to push off the ground. A rupture of this tendon can significantly impair mobility, making accurate identification of such an injury important for timely intervention and recovery.
Immediate Sensations and Sounds
An Achilles tendon rupture often occurs suddenly. Individuals frequently report sharp, severe pain in the back of the ankle or calf, sometimes described as feeling like a direct kick or hit to the leg. This acute pain is often accompanied by an audible “pop” or “snap” at the moment of injury, which may be heard by the individual or those nearby. This immediate and intense sensation differs from the gradual onset of soreness or discomfort from a minor muscle strain, signifying the tendon stretching beyond its capacity and tearing.
Observable Physical Signs
Following an Achilles rupture, several physical indicators can become apparent without needing specific maneuvers. Swelling typically develops around the ankle and lower calf. While bruising might not be immediately visible, it can emerge hours or even a day after the injury due to internal bleeding. A noticeable “gap” or indentation in the tendon can often be felt or seen a few centimeters above the heel bone, indicating where the tendon has torn. Individuals will also experience difficulty pushing off the foot or standing on tiptoes on the affected side, as the tendon no longer effectively connects the calf muscles to the heel.
Self-Assessment Tests
To assess a potential Achilles rupture at home, individuals can perform simple tests. The Thompson Test is a primary method.
To perform the Thompson Test, lie on your stomach with your feet hanging freely off a bed or chair, ensuring calf muscles are relaxed. Gently squeeze the calf muscle of the injured leg. If the Achilles tendon is intact, this action will cause the foot to point downwards. If ruptured, there will be no or very little foot movement when the calf is squeezed. Comparing the response to the uninjured leg helps highlight the difference.
Another assessment involves attempting to stand on the toes of the injured foot; a rupture typically prevents this. Similarly, attempting to push off the ground with the injured foot while walking will likely reveal significant weakness or an inability to generate propulsion.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
If an Achilles tendon rupture is suspected based on immediate sensations, observable signs, or self-assessment tests, seek prompt medical attention. While self-assessment provides preliminary indications, a professional diagnosis by a doctor, such as an orthopedic specialist or an emergency room physician, is essential for confirming the injury and determining treatment. Medical professionals will conduct a thorough physical examination, including performing the Thompson Test, and may utilize imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. Common imaging methods include ultrasound, which provides dynamic views of the tendon, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which offers detailed soft tissue images. Early and accurate diagnosis is key for the best outcome and preventing potential long-term complications from an improperly healed tendon.