How is an Achilles tendon rupture diagnosed?

       The Achilles tendon is the most powerful tendon in the human body and is subjected to strong pulling forces such as weight-bearing walking, jumping and running. There are two types of causes of Achilles tendon rupture, one is the direct cutting or striking of the Achilles tendon by sharp or blunt objects, which is an open injury; the other is a closed injury, which is mostly caused by running and jumping sports, such as somersaulting, jumping up and shooting, long jumping, etc. On the basis of degenerative changes of the Achilles tendon, the calf triceps muscle is violently pulled, which leads to the disease. The diagnosis can be made by ultrasound and MRI.  The main manifestations of the rupture are: first, the affected foot cannot lift the heel, i.e. the heel of the affected foot cannot be lifted; second, the shape of the Achilles tendon disappears and there is a sense of depression when touched; third, there is a sharp pressure pain in the skin of the Achilles tendon, and the swelling is not significant; fourth, the Achilles tendon is lengthened when in the resting position; fifth, the pinch triceps test is positive, the test is performed by lying the patient prone, placing both feet outside the edge of the bed, pinching the belly of the triceps with the hand, and the normal side The ankle joint appears to be plantarflexed, while the Achilles tendon rupture side does not move.  The patient often complains of being kicked and hearing a “pop” sound.  The disease should be differentiated from heel fracture, both of which have swelling, pain, and limitation of movement in the heel, but the latter injury is usually more violent and positive for longitudinal percussion pain in the lower extremity, and the diagnosis can be clearly established by imaging.