Partial tear of Achilles tendon
What is it?
The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to the bone in the heel of your foot. A partial Achilles tendon tear is when part of the Achilles tendon is torn. Often the central fibres of the Achilles tendon are broken and the surrounding ones are still connected.
Symptoms
There may be a tender, swollen area in the middle of your Achilles tendon.
You may also have:
- pain and stiffness after rest or inactivity, particularly first thing in the morning
- pain which may improve when exercising or it may be worse – this depends on when the injury occurred
A partial Achilles tendon tear isn't as instantly noticeable as a complete rupture and may not be obvious until you cool down.
Causes
A partial tear can be caused by:
- wearing unsupportive or unsuitable shoes
- a tensed calf muscle when your leg is straight
- a change or increase in your training
- not warming up your calf muscles properly before exercising
Treatments
Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be used for pain. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
You may need treatment from a physiotherapist or sports medicine doctor. He or she will assess and treat your injury according to your individual needs using the following:
- a cast or brace to keep the Achilles tendon straight so it can heal
- a heel raise, this shortens the Achilles tendon helping it to heal
- massage to soften the scar tissue, this may include ultrasound therapy
- strengthening exercises
Do
- Seek medical advice.
- Follow the advice you are given.
- Follow PRICE.
- Remember to warm up and cool down to prevent injury after the Achilles tendon has healed.
Don't
- Ignore the pain or delay treatment.
- Try to continue training if you are having treatment.
- Try to do too much once the cast or brace is removed – you don't want to risk injuring it again.
Peer reviewed by Alex Floyd, MCSP, Bupa Sports Medicine physiotherapist
Publication date: June 2009
