What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The achilles tendon otherwise known as the tendon calcaneus, is a tendon made up of a large band of fibrous tissue located on lower 1/3 of the posterior leg at the back of the ankle. This tendon is a conjoined tendon of two powerful calf muscles, ie. the gastrocnemious and soleus that inserts to the heel bone or calcaneus. It is the largest tendon in the human body. When the calf muscles tighten or contract, the Achilles tendon then pulls on the heel. This action allows you to point your foot as well as stand on your tiptoes. It is a vital component to various activities such as walking, running, and jumping.

Conditions: There are two common conditions that affect the achilles tendon. These conditions include achilles tendonitis and achilles tendonosis.