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/15/12Tendon (Human Anatomy): Picture, Definiti on, Inju ries, Pain, and M ore

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Image Collection:

Picture of the Achilles Tendon

Fitness & Exercise

Human Anatomy

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The Achilles tendon is a tough band of fibrous tissue that connects the calfmuscles to the heel bone (calcaneus). The Achilles tendon is also called the

calcaneal tendon.

The gastrocnemius and soleus muscles (calf muscles) unite into one band of

tissue, which becomes the Achilles tendon at the low end of the calf. The

Achilles tendon then inserts into the calcaneus. Small sacs of fluid called bursae

cushion the Achilles tendon at the heel.

The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. When the

calf muscles flex, the Achilles tendon pulls on the heel. This movement allows us

to stand on our toes when walking, running, or jumping. Despite its strength, the

Achilles tendon is also vulnerable to injury, due to its limited blood supply and

the high tensions placed on it.

Achilles Tendon Conditions

Achilles tendon tear: Tears of the Achilles tendon can be tiny (microtears),

or large, causing pain, swelling, and impaired movement. They may occur

suddenly during activity, or gradually over time.

Achilles tendon rupture: A complete rupture of the Achilles tendon may

make a "pop" sound, followed by pain and swelling of the lower leg. Treating

an Achilles tendon rupture requires surgery or long-term immobilization of

the ankle.

Achilles tendinitis(tendonitis): Frequent activity (running or walking) can

gradually inflame the end of the Achilles tendon, causing pain and stiffness

Article Link:http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/picture-of-the-achilles-tendon

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8/12/2019 Achilles Tendon (Human Anatomy)

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Tendon (Human Anatomy): Picture, Definiti on, Inju ries, Pain, and M ore

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Further Reading:

Achilles Tendon Problems-Cause

Achilles Tendon Problems-Related Information

Achilles tendon

Achilles tendon rupture

Should I have surgery for a ruptured Achilles tendon?

Torn Achilles tendon: Treatment and Recovery of Jim Miller of the Chicago

Bears

Vinny Testaverde, Quarterback for the New York Jets

See All Achilles Tendon Topics

at the back of the heel. Rest, ice, and stretching may speed healing, which

can take weeks.

Achilles peritendonitis: Similar to Achilles tendonitis, but inflammation and

pain occur in the tissue surrounding the tendon, often two or more inches

above the heel.

Achilles tendinosis: Gradual thickening of the Achilles tendon without

apparent inflammation, due to aging or overuse. Despite the thickening, the

tendon is weakened and prone to further injury or rupture.

Achilles tendinopathy: A general term for tendinitis or tendinosis affecting

the Achilles tendon.

Achilles or heel (calcaneal) bursitis: Low-riding shoes can irritate the bursa,a sac of fluid cushioning the Achilles tendon at the heel. Pain in the back of

the heel, worse with shoes on, is the common symptom.

SOURCESCanale S, Campbells Operative Orthopaedics, Mosby Elsevier, 2007.Mazzone F,American Family Physician, 2002; vol 65: pp 1805-1810.http://w w w .aafp.org/afp/20020501/1805.htmReview ed on March 26, 2010

2010 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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