Achilles Tendon Rupture: The Diagnosis

Achilles Tendon Rupture Being the largest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon connects the gastrocnemius (calf muscle) to the calcaneus bone of the foot. Tendons are rather strong, but not very flexible. Now since its the largest tendon, you can imagine it can be easily injured and can be very painful. When your gastrocnemius muscle contracts, the Achilles tendon is stretched upwards, forcing your toes down. This process is critical in some every day …

…John" was forced to wear a cast for 3 months. Today, casts are no longer used because it shrinks and weakens the calf muscle and soemtimes the tendon will not heal correctly. It's amazing how modern medicine has changed dramatcilly over only a decade. Bibliography: Personal Interview: "John" http://www.arthroscopy.com/sp09009.htm http://sportsmedicine.about.com/cs/ankle/a/ankle4.htm http://www.footandankle.mdmercy.com/conditions/achilles_tendon_probs/acute_achl_tendonrupture.html#