The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. A badly torn Achilles tendon causes pain and sudden loss of strength and movement. Sometimes this is called a rupture.
An Achilles tear is most often caused by a sudden, forceful motion that stresses the calf muscle. This can happen during intense sports activity or even during simple running or jumping. Middle-aged adults are more likely to get this kind of injury.
A tendon that is badly or completely torn is most often treated with surgery. Sometimes a tear may be treated with a cast, splint, brace, or other device that keeps the lower leg from moving.