Heel, Achilles & Arch Pain

Achilles Tendon Tears & Ruptures

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for Achilles tendon tears, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Understanding Achilles tendon tears and your options.

An Achilles tear happens when the big tendon at the back of the ankle is partly or fully torn. A full tear is also called a rupture. It can happen suddenly during sport or a quick push-off, and it can make walking hard right away.

These injuries are most common in adults who play stop-and-go sports, often in their 30s to 50s. Quick care matters, because the right plan is easier to start soon after the injury.

Request an appointment Call 615-220-8788

Symptoms

Signs of Achilles tendon tears.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

01
A sudden pop or snap at the back of the ankle
02
Sharp pain, as if someone kicked your calf
03
Trouble rising onto your toes or pushing off
04
Swelling and bruising behind the ankle

Why it happens

What can cause Achilles tendon tears.

01
Sudden bursts of effort in sports like basketball or tennis
02
Long-term tendon wear that weakens the fibers
03
A missed step or a fall that stretches the tendon
04
Some medicines and past injections near the tendon

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Diagnosis and care

How we treat Achilles tendon tears.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We check for a gap in the tendon and test how the foot moves when we squeeze the calf. Ultrasound is often used to see how much of the tendon is torn. MRI can add detail in unclear or partial tears.

Step 2 · Treatment

Some tears are treated without surgery. This usually means a boot or cast that holds the foot in a helpful position, followed by careful physical therapy. The right approach depends on the tear, your age, your activity level, and your health. We talk through the options so you can choose with confidence.

Surgery may be recommended to repair the tendon, especially for active people or larger tears. Both surgery and non-surgical care can work well, and each has its own risks.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Healing takes time, often six months to a year before full return to sport. Most people walk normally well before that, but strength builds slowly.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

Get seen as soon as possible if you think you tore your Achilles. Until then, keep weight off the foot and avoid stretching the area.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Heel, Achilles & Arch Pain.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Can I walk with a torn Achilles?

Some people can still walk, but usually with a limp and weak push-off. Walking does not mean the tendon is fine, so it should still be checked.

Is a partial tear less serious?

It is often easier to manage, but it can still worsen if ignored. Ultrasound or MRI helps us plan the right care.

Get help with Achilles tendon tears.

Request an appointment Call 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Achilles Tendon Tears & Ruptures care at 15 clinics.

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