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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
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Author Spotlight: Exploring the Complexities of Achilles Tendon Injuries — Research and Future Directions
Published on: October 27, 2023
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Retrospective Epidemiological Study of Achilles Tendon Ruptures.
Edmond F Iradukunda1, Abdul Hadi Kafagi2, Mustafa Farooqi2
1Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, GBR.
Cureus
|December 8, 2025
Summary
Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) most frequently affect middle-aged men playing sports like football, particularly in warmer months. Non-sports-related ruptures occur more in older individuals.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Limited UK-specific epidemiological data exists for Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs).
- Understanding UK population context for ATRs is crucial for targeted prevention.
- Previous studies offer international and some local insights, but recent data is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiology of Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) in a UK population.
- To identify demographic, activity-related, and seasonal patterns of ATRs.
- To compare characteristics of sports-related versus non-sports-related ATRs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective collection of ATR data and patient history from electronic patient records (EPR).
- Telephone interviews to supplement and confirm information from EPRs.
- Analysis of data from a sample of 88 participants.
Main Results:
- Achilles tendon ruptures predominantly affect males (76%) with a median age of 44.
- Football is the most common activity (39%), with acceleration from a stationary position being a frequent mechanism (30%).
- Sports-related ATRs are common in middle-aged men during spring and summer, while non-sports-related ATRs occur in older individuals.
Conclusions:
- Achilles tendon ruptures in the UK sample are most common in middle-aged men during sporting activities in spring and summer.
- Non-sports-related ruptures are more prevalent in older age groups.
- Further large-scale research is needed to identify high-risk groups for tailored injury prevention strategies.
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