Achilles Tendon Tears in Racquet Sports: A Rising Concern in Orthopedics

Racquet sports like tennis, pickleball, squash, and badminton offer excellent cardiovascular and muscular benefits—but they also pose a significant risk for Achilles tendon injuries. Over recent years, orthopedic clinics have seen a noticeable uptick in Achilles tendon tears among recreational and competitive players, especially those over 35. 

Why Racquet Sports Pose a Risk

Achilles tendon tears often occur during sudden, explosive movements—hallmarks of racquet sports. Quick pivots, lunges, sprints, and abrupt stops create immense stress on the tendon. When combined with tight calf muscles, poor conditioning, or inadequate warm-ups, these dynamic motions can lead to partial or complete ruptures.

The Numbers: A Growing Trend

• Incidence: Studies estimate that Achilles tendon ruptures affect 7–40 per 100,000 people annually, with a significant portion related to sports.
  
  
• Recreational athletes: More than 75% of Achilles tears occur during recreational athletic activity, with racquet sports leading the list.
  
  
• Pickleball boom: With the rapid rise in popularity of pickleball among older adults, orthopedic clinics are seeing more overuse and acute Achilles injuries in players who may not have prior athletic conditioning.
  

Who Is at Risk?

• Men over 35 are the most commonly affected demographic.
  
  
• Players returning to activity after a sedentary period or without proper cross-training are especially vulnerable.
  
  
• Those with a history of tendinopathy, tight calves, or recent use of fluoroquinolone antibiotics or corticosteroids may face higher risk.
  

Symptoms of an Achilles Tear

• Sudden sharp pain or a popping sensation in the back of the ankle
  
  
• Difficulty walking or rising on toes
  
  
• Swelling or bruising in the calf or ankle area
  
  
• A noticeable gap in the tendon above the heel
  

Orthopedic Evaluation & Treatment

A prompt diagnosis is critical. Orthopedic specialists may use clinical tests (like the Thompson test), ultrasound, or MRI to confirm the rupture. Treatment options include:

• Surgical repair for active patients seeking a quicker and stronger recovery
  
  
• Non-surgical management with functional rehabilitation for select cases
  
  
• Physical therapy is essential in both cases to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility
  

Prevention Tips

• Always warm up and stretch the calves and hamstrings thoroughly before play.
  
  
• Incorporate strength and flexibility training into your weekly routine.
  
  
• Wear proper court shoes with good heel support.
  
  
• Don’t ignore early signs of tendon pain—seek orthopedic advice before it worsens.
  

Stay in the Game—Safely

Racquet sports are a fantastic way to stay fit and engaged. But as the popularity of these games grows, so does the risk for injuries like Achilles tendon ruptures. An orthopedic consultation and personalized training plan can help reduce your risk and keep you playing longer—without a setback.