A rupture of the Achilles tendon occurs in those who are at rick for it and simultaneously dorsiflex the foot and extend the knee. As the calf muscles and Achilles tendon cross both these joints, both these motions happening at the same time put a great load on the Achilles and if its is at risk, there is a high possibility that it might rupture.
When a rupture occurs, it is usually pretty obvious. There is usually an audible ‘snap’ and it is difficult to raise up on to the ball of the foot. It is also going to hurt! There will usually also be some swelling.
There is a lot of difference of opinion on to how the rupture should be treated. Some argue for a surgical repair and others argue for a more conservative casting. All the research on the difference in the outcomes between the two show they both tend to have equally successful outcomes.