• A sudden "pop" or snapping feeling in the back of the ankle
• Severe pain at the time of injury
• Difficulty or inability to walk normally
• Trouble pushing off the injured foot
• Inability to stand on your tiptoes
• Swelling around the heel or ankle
• Bruising on the back of the ankle or calf
• Weakness in the calf
• A gap or dent that can sometimes be felt above the heel

• Feeling like someone kicked or hit you in the back of the ankle
• A loud pop followed by sudden pain
• Weakness when trying to walk or push off your foot
• Your foot feels unstable or "gives out"
• Difficulty climbing stairs or running
• Pain may decrease after the injury, but weakness usually remains

• Sudden sprinting or pushing off to run
• Jumping and landing awkwardly
• Quickly changing direction during sports
• Sports like basketball, soccer, football, tennis, and volleyball
• Returning to sports too quickly after an Achilles injury
• Tight calf muscles or poor flexibility
• Less commonly, a direct blow to the back of the ankle

• Did you feel or hear a sudden pop in the back of your ankle?
• Did the injury happen while sprinting, jumping, or changing direction?
• Does it feel like someone kicked you in the back of the leg, even though no one did?
• Are you unable to stand on your tiptoes on the injured leg?
• Is it difficult to push off your foot while walking?
• Do you have swelling or bruising around your heel or ankle?
• Does your calf feel much weaker than normal?
• Can you feel a gap or dent above your heel?

Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.

1. 1Stop playing immediatly and go see a healthcare provider immediatley
2. 2Keep weight off the leg and use crutches until you have been evaulated
3. 3Ice the area from 15-20 mintues at a time to help with pain and swelling

• A loud pop followed by sudden weakness
• Inability to stand on your toes
• Inability to push off the injured foot
• Severe swelling or bruising
• A visible or noticeable gap in the tendon
• Severe pain after a sports injury
• Numbness, coldness, or loss of color in the foot

• Wear Your Boot or Cast: Follow your provider's instructions about wearing protective devices.
• Don't Rush Back: Returning to sports too early increases the risk of another rupture.
• Stay Active Safely: Ask your provider about safe activities like swimming or stationary cycling during recovery.
• Stretch and Strengthen Gradually: Only begin exercises when recommended by your healthcare provider or physical therapist.
• Be Patient: Recovery often takes 6–12 months before returning to full sports, depending on the injury and treatment.
• Keep Up With Rehab: Consistent rehabilitation is one of the best ways to regain strength and reduce the chance of reinjury.