Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
-
Chat With Us
+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Partial Tear of the Achilles Tendon
What is a partial tear of the Achilles tendon?
A partial tear of the Achilles tendon is an incomplete rupture of the strong tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Physiotherapy is a key component of treatment, helping to reduce pain, restore strength, and support safe healing of the tendon.
How does a partial tear of the Achilles tendon happen?
Partial tears of the Achilles tendon usually occur when the calf muscles contract forcefully, placing excessive stress on the tendon. This type of injury is common in sports that involve sudden changes of direction, explosive lunges, or powerful jumping movements.
What are the symptoms of a partial tear of the Achilles tendon?
A partial tear of the Achilles tendon typically causes pain in the back of the lower leg, often described as feeling like being kicked in the back of the ankle. In some cases, there may be an audible snap, crack, or tearing sound at the time of injury. Swelling is common around the tendon, and walking can become difficult due to pain and calf weakness. Other symptoms may include:
- Sharp pain at the back of the ankle or lower leg
- Bruising and discoloration around the tendon
- Stiffness in the ankle, especially in the morning or after rest
- Tenderness when pressing on the tendon
- Difficulty rising onto the toes or pushing off when walking
- A feeling of weakness or instability in the ankle
- Limping due to pain and reduced function
What should I do if I have a partial tear of my Achilles tendon?
To help control bleeding and swelling in the tissues, the RICE protocol — Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation — should be followed in the early stages of injury management.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a partial tear of my Achilles tendon?
If you have sustained a partial tear of the Achilles tendon, you should avoid activities that increase blood flow to the tendon, as this can worsen bleeding and swelling. These include hot showers, calf stretching, heat rubs, alcohol consumption, and excessive physical activity.
Physiotherapy treatment for a partial tear of the Achilles tendon.
Regardless of your previous activity level, physiotherapy is essential in the treatment of a partial Achilles tendon rupture. Your physiotherapist will begin by assessing your injury and creating a tailored treatment plan. In some cases, you may also be referred to other medical professionals for further management. Physiotherapy treatment may include:
- Pain and swelling management – ice therapy, gentle massage, and electrotherapy
- Immobilisation support – advice on braces, walking boots, or heel lifts if required
- Gradual range of motion exercises – to restore flexibility without overloading the tendon
- Progressive strengthening – focusing on calf and Achilles loading with controlled exercises
- Eccentric heel-drop exercises – once healing allows, to improve tendon strength and resilience
- Balance and proprioception training – to restore ankle stability and reduce reinjury risk
- Gait re-education – correcting walking patterns after time offloading the tendon
- Activity modification and return-to-sport planning – structured progression back to daily and sporting activities
- Footwear and orthotics advice – to reduce strain on the tendon and improve biomechanics
Could there be any long-term effects from a partial tear of the Achilles tendon?
With appropriate treatment, most partial Achilles tendon tears will heal successfully. The recovery timeframe varies depending on the severity of the injury, typically ranging from several weeks to a few months.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
Get treated today!
We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.
Find out more »
We are open...
Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
Find your nearest clinic
Acephysio Sports have clinics located throughout the Singapore.
Find out more »
