Achilles tendon rupture
Published on: 8/20/2026
Achilles tendon rupture (non-traumatic/closed) is a fairly common clinical injury following sports trauma or a chronic tendinopathy condition that leads to a weakened and rupture-prone tendon. Another common cause in the past is corticosteroid injection into the tendon, leading to collagen destruction and tendon rupture.
Patients typically describe hearing a "pop" sound during sports activity, followed by swelling, pain, and loss of plantarflexion at the ankle (inability to stand on tiptoe).
The fundamental test for Achilles tendon rupture is the Thompson test. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows for an accurate diagnosis and assessment of the severity of the rupture.
In the majority of cases, Achilles tendon rupture is indicated for surgery. Tendon repair surgery is performed as soon as possible after the injury. Following surgery, the patient is immobilized in a cast for about 6 weeks before undergoing rehabilitation exercises.
A very common scenario is a delayed presentation of Achilles tendon rupture (after 6 weeks). At this point, the triceps surae muscle has retracted upward, and the two tendon ends are far apart, requiring Achilles tendon lengthening techniques and a prolonged rehabilitation process.
This clinical case involves a 32-year-old male patient with an Achilles tendon rupture due to sports trauma. The patient's recovery outcome after 3 months is very promising.
Figures 1-2: The patient is exercising very well 3 months post-surgery.
The second clinical case is a foreign male patient over 40 years old. The patient returned after 1 year with an excellent recovery outcome.
Figure 3: The patient posing with Dr. Vu Anh during the 1-year postoperative follow-up visit.
Figure 4: Dr. Vu Anh during the Achilles tendon repair surgery.
Figure 5: The ruptured Achilles tendon tissue of the patient.
Dr. Do Vu Anh
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