Abstract

Introduction

Achilles tendon rupture is the most common tendon rupture in the lower extremity.  The injury most commonly occurs in adults in their third to fifth decade of life.^[1]  Acute ruptures often present with sudden onset of pain associated with a "snapping" or audible "pop" heard at the site of injury.  Patients can describe the sensation of being kicked in the lower leg. The injury is causes significant pain and disability in patient populations.

Achilles tendon injuries typically occur in individuals who are only active intermittently (i.e., the "weekend warrior" athletes). The injury is reportedly misdiagnosed as an ankle sprain in 20% to 25% of patients.  Most commonly affected as 10% report a history of prodromal symptoms, and known risk factors include prior intratendinous degeneration, fluoroquinolone use, steroid injections, and inflammatory arthritides.^[2,3]

Achilles tendon ruptures occur at a rate of 18 patients per 100,000 people annually, according to various research in the literature.  An Achilles tendinosis incidence rate of 7% to 18% in runners, 9% in dancers, 5 % in gymnasts, and 2% in tennis players, has been recorded in the literature. Achilles diseases afflict around 1 million athletes each year, according to estimates.^[4]

Achilles tendon ruptures can be caused by a variety of factors, including sudden, forced plantar flexion of the foot, direct trauma, and chronic tendinopathy or intratendinous degenerative diseases. A ruptured Achilles tendon can occur while diving, playing tennis, basketball, or running. Furthermore Corticosteroids, overexertion, and usage of quinolone antibiotics are all risk factors for Achilles tendon ruptures that can be avoided. About two to four centimeter above the insertion of the Achilles tendon, tendon ruptures are most common. Achilles tendon ruptures most commonly occur in the left side in right-handed people, and vice versa.^[5]