James B. Grimes, MD
mis med pro

Achilles Tendon Rupture


When the Achilles tendon ruptures you may experience pain in the back of your leg above your heel, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty to stand on tiptoe and push the leg when walking. A popping or snapping sound may be heard when the injury occurs.


Achilles tendon rupture is treated using non-surgical method or surgical method. Non-surgical treatment involves wearing a cast or special brace that lifts your heel, allowing the tendon to heal. Surgical procedure involves opening the skin and suturing the torn tendon together. Surgery helps to decrease the recurrence of the Achilles tendon tear in comparison to the non-surgical treatment. With either treatment, physical therapy may later be recommended to improve the strength and flexibility of leg muscles and the Achilles tendon.

Dr. Grimes encountered a memorable case of Achilles Tendon Rupture during his residency. A 40 year-old man who was a former world-record holder in the 100-yard dash was playing catcher in a softball game. The batter bunted the ball, and the catcher sprinted forward to field the ball. He simultaneously felt a pop and pain above his heel and fell down. He stayed low and looked around thinking he had been shot in the heel with a gun. However, he noticed there was no bullet wound–he had torn his Achilles tendon.



For more information click the tabs below


Tell a Friend

Type the characters you see in the picture above