Achilles Tendon Problems: Symptoms
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Symptoms
Symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy may include:
- Pain in the back of the heel, in the Achilles tendon
area. Pain may be mild or severe, and swelling may occur. - Tenderness in the Achilles tendon area. Tenderness may be more noticeable in the morning.
- Stiffness that goes away as the tendon warms up with use.
- Decreased strength and movement, or a feeling of sluggishness in the leg.
Symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture may include:
- A sudden, sharp pain that feels like a direct hit to the Achilles tendon. There may be a pop when the rupture occurs. This may be followed by swelling and bruising.
- Heel pain (may be severe).
- Not being able to go on tiptoe with the hurt leg.
If you have a partial rupture (tear) of the Achilles tendon, you may have near-normal strength and less pain after the initial injury, compared to what you experience after a complete rupture.
| Last updated: | January 30, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Reviewed By: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Nicola Maffulli, MD, PhD - Orthopedics |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
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