1) Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon in the back of the ankle with symptoms of pain when walking, pushing off, or jumping. 2) An Achilles rupture is a complete or partial tear of the Achilles tendon that causes a loud pop and inability to stand on toes. 3) Treatment for tendonitis is rest, ice, and physical therapy while a rupture requires immobilization and possibly surgery followed by a lengthy rehabilitation process.

1. Achilles Tendonitis
and Rupture
Puʻuwai & Makana

2. Injury?
 Achilles Tendonitis: irritation and
inflammation of the large tendon in the
back of the ankle
 Achilles Rupture: When you tear your
Achilles. (can be ripped completely, or a
partially tear)

3. Bone
Structures/Ligaments/Tendo
ns Involved
 Achilles Tendonitis: No
bones or ligaments
involved. Achilles
Tendon
 Achilles rupture:
Calcaneus, no
ligaments, but the
Achilles Tendon

4. Aspect of the Leg?
 Both are posterior aspects

5. Signs and Symptoms
 Achilles Rupture: Severe pain felt at the
back of the ankle or calf, (described as
someone stepping on the back of the
ankle…..or being shot…)
 May also hear the sound of a loud pop or
snap
 Gap or depression felt or seen two inches
above the heel bone
 Initial swelling or stiffness to follow
 Stand on tippy toes and push off, negative
results will resemble as the rupture.

7. Signs and Symptoms (cont.)
 Achilles Tendonitis:
 Pain behind the
heel, most
prominent 2-4
inches above the
heel
 Pain while walking,
pushing off or
jumping
 Inflammation
 Lack of flexibility

8. Treatment
 Achilles Tendonitis:
 Rest; avoid running and jumping
 Ice, whirlpool
 Physical therapy/ rehab

9. Treatment (cont.)
 Achilles Rupture:
 Protection
(immobilization up to
6 weeks.)
 Surgical treatment
(cast)
 Moving foot and
ankle to prevent
stiffness, but no
weight bearing
 Heel lift device for
support
 Regular physical
therapy

10. Prognosis
 Achilles Tendonitis:
 Lifestyle changes: Stay in shape/ keep area
active
 Continue to stretch and strengthen as you
continue to be active.
 Achilles Rupture
 Surgery (heals faster) out for about 8 – 12
months
 Return to some limited physical activity 4-6
months after.