An Achilles tendon rupture is a tear of the large tendon at the back of the ankle. It usually happens suddenly during sports or a quick push-off. Early treatment matters, so if you think you have ruptured your Achilles, call us right away. Same-day appointments are often available.
Our foot and ankle team sees patients for achilles ruptures at our office in Exton, PA, conveniently serving patients from Downingtown, Chester Springs, Malvern, and West Chester.
What is an Achilles rupture
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and lets you push off when you walk, run, and jump. A rupture can be partial or complete. It most often happens a few inches above the heel.
Common causes and risk factors
- Sudden push-off, jumping, or a quick change of direction, such as in basketball, tennis, or pickleball
- Stepping into a hole or missing a step
- Weekend athletes, especially in middle age
- Earlier Achilles tendonitis or tendon weakening
- Certain medications, such as some antibiotics or steroid injections near the tendon
What you might feel
- A sudden pop or snap at the back of the ankle
- A feeling of being kicked or hit in the heel
- Pain and swelling near the heel
- Trouble walking, pushing off, or rising onto your toes
- A gap you can feel in the tendon
Our Achilles rupture treatment approach
We diagnose a rupture with a physical exam, and may use ultrasound or MRI to check the tear. Then we discuss the best option for your age, activity level, and health.
Non-surgical treatment
Some ruptures can heal with a cast or walking boot that holds the foot pointed down, followed by a gradual return to motion and physical therapy. This avoids surgical risks and can work well for many patients, especially when started early.
Surgical repair
Surgery reconnects the torn ends of the tendon. It is often considered for active patients and athletes, or when the tendon ends are far apart. When appropriate, we use minimally invasive repair techniques with smaller incisions in our own surgery center. Delayed or older ruptures may need more involved reconstruction.
Recovery takes several months with either option. We will guide you through each stage, from protected walking to physical therapy and return to activity.
Ongoing pain at the back of the heel without a sudden injury? See our Back of Heel Pain page.
When you should contact us
- Right away after a pop, snap, or sudden pain at the back of the ankle
- If you cannot push off or stand on your toes on the injured side
- If you suspect a partial tear or an old injury that never healed
Until you are seen, rest, ice, keep the leg elevated, and avoid walking on it if you can.
Get fast care for an Achilles injury
We will confirm the diagnosis quickly and explain both non-surgical and surgical options so you can get back to activity. Same-day appointments are often available.