The achilles is the strong band of tissue behind your ankle that attaches your calf muscle to your heel bone. The achilles ruptures often happen during sport while running, jumping, or changing directions and is often described as a pop and sensation of “being kicked in the back of the leg”. Although not always predictable, some risk factors for achilles ruptures include aging, obesity, steroid medication, poor running mechanics, poor footwear, flat feet, or high arches. There may also be a history of achilles tendonitis or previous achilles injury. Your therapist is trained in detecting achilles rupture and creating a treatment plan to restore your function including a referral for surgical intervention if needed.