The Achilles tendon Surface Anatomy

Location

The Achilles tendon is the tendon that connects the gastrocnemius and soleus to the calcaneal tuberosity. It courses midline at the posterior aspect of the ankle between the two malleoli.

Significance

Tenderness and swelling 2-3cm proximal to the Achilles tendon’s insertion on the calcaneus is consistent with tendon rupture or chronic tendonitis.

Tenderness at the insertion site of the Achilles tendon on the calcaneus is consistent with retorcalcaneal bursitis or calcification of the tendon.