The Achilles tendon (name from Greek mythology), also called the calcaneal tendon, is one of the largest tendons in the human body, located between the lower calf and the heel.

The Achilles tendon originates in the calf muscle, the triceps sural, and attaches to the heel bone, the calcaneus (1). At the level of the heel, the tendon is surrounded by two serous bursaries, the retro-calcaneal and retro-achilles bursa, facilitating the sliding of the latter. About ten centimeters long, the Achilles tendon has the particularity of having a thick and flat structure, making it more resistant. Its resistance is also due to its collagen and elastin structure, characteristic of tendons.

Weight support. The position and resistance of the Achilles tendon allow it to withstand heavy loads, up to 10 times the weight of the body (2).

Ankle plantar flexion movement. By the action of the triceps sural, the Achilles tendon allows plantar flexion of the ankle, i.e. the position on the tips of the feet (1).

Tendinopathies. They designate all the pathologies that can occur in the tendons. In the Achilles tendon, they are mainly manifested by pain in the foot during exertion. The causes of these pathologies can be varied. The origin can be intrinsic as well with genetic predispositions, as extrinsic, with for example bad positions during sports practice (3).

• Tendinitis. It corresponds to an inflammation of the tendons.
• Bursitis. It corresponds to an inflammation of the serous bursae.

Achilles tendon rupture. It is a tearing of tissue that causes the Achilles tendon to rupture. Symptoms are sudden pain and inability to walk. The origin is still poorly understood (4).

Physical treatment. Physical therapies, through specific exercise programs, are most often prescribed such as physiotherapy or physiotherapy.

Medical treatment. Depending on the condition and the pain perceived by the patient, painkillers may be prescribed. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed if inflammation of the tendon is found.

Surgical treatment. Surgical treatment is usually performed for Achilles tendon rupture and in some severe cases of tendinopathy.

Physical examination. The diagnosis is made primarily by clinical examination to note the superficial condition of the tendon, the capacity for movement, and the pain perceived by the patient.

Medical imaging exam. To confirm a pathology, a medical imaging examination may be performed such as an x-ray, an ultrasound, or an MRI.

The term “Achilles tendon” originates from the hero of Greek mythology, Achilles, notably playing a decisive role in the legendary Trojan War. Son of King Peleus and Thetis, a sea goddess, Achilles was plunged by his mother into the Styx, a river of Hell. By this gesture, his mother made him invulnerable except at the level of the heel by which she held him. Having become his weak point, his heel will be the cause of his death, when he was hit by an arrow (5).