Features

When the Achilles tendon ruptures, according to the Mayo Clinic, there is a palpable pop and then a sharp pain in the lower leg, making it impossible to walk normally.

Effects

People with a fully ruptured Achilles tendon cannot bend the foot down and are not able to stand on the toes of the affected foot, while those with only a partial rupture may still be able to move the affected foot in these ways.

Causes

Rupture of the Achilles tendon is an "overstretch" injury. In addition to sports activity, it may be caused by falling from high up or stepping into a hole, according to the Mayo Clinic; it may also be a complication of Achilles tendinitis, which causes inflammation of the tendon, according to MedlinePlus.

Surgery

Surgery is the best treatment option to repair the tendon. The torn ends of the tendon are surgically reattached, and the patient spends six to eight weeks in a cast (or similar device) to allow for healing.

Other Treatments

Another option is to allow the tendon to reattach by itself simply through wearing a cast; however, the Mayo Clinic cautions that this option carries a greater risk of the tendon's rupturing again.

Source:

Mayo Clinic

MedlinePlus