Function

The Achilles tendon pushes and stabilizes your calf muscles. It is the largest tendon in the human body, reports the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), and can withstand up to 1,000 pounds of force.

Anatomy

Tendons are tough bands of tissues that connect muscle to bone. A tendon sheath surrounds most tendons in the body, for protection, but layers of soft tissue called paratenon surround the Achilles tendon.

Injuries

The Achilles tendon is prone to injury from overuse or repeated movements, according to WebMD. Overstretching or trauma can also rupture it, says the AAOS.

Rehabilitation

Surgical and nonsurgical methods treat Achilles tendon injuries. Nonsurgical rehab is similar to many other injuries---rest, special bandages, stretching, strength training and massage---according to the AAOS. Surgical repairs of the Achilles tendon aim at removing fibrous tissue and mending ruptures. After surgery, the patient will wear a cast for six to 10 weeks, says the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS) website.

Prevention

Injury prevention involves stretching the calf muscles and Achilles tendon before exercise or activity, according to the UMHS. Increasing exercise intensity, length or distance gradually, rather than drastically, will also help you avoid Achilles tendon injury.

Source:

WebMD: Achilles Tendon Problems

University of Michigan Health System: Achilles Tendon Injury

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Achilles Tendonitis

More Information:

AchillesTendon.com: Everything About Achilles Tendons