The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. In an Achilles tendon rupture, the tendon is completely torn, which causes pain and sudden loss of strength and movement.

An Achilles rupture is most often caused by a sudden, forceful motion that stresses the calf muscle. This can happen during an intense athletic activity or even during simple running or jumping. Middle-aged adults are especially likely to get this kind of injury.

A rupture is usually treated with surgery. Sometimes it may be treated with a cast, splint, brace, or other device that keeps the lower leg from moving.