What is an Achilles injury?

What is an Achilles injury?ByKatharine SharpeBBC Sport senior journalistPublished3 minutes agoLiverpool striker Hugo Ekitike has been ruled out of France's 2026 World Cup Squad after suffering an Achilles tendon rupture during their Champions League quarter-final loss to Paris St-Germain.The club confirmed he had sustained a serious rupture when slipping on the pitch, before having to be stretchered off.So what are Achilles ruptures, and how long do they take to recover from?Get in touchSend us your questionsContact formContact formWhat are Achilles injuries?Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Hugo Ekitike has been ruled out of the rest of Liverpool's season and could miss the start of the next campaignThe Achilles tendon is an important band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel.Because it is so frequently used for running, standing and walking, it can be susceptible to both overuse and sudden injuries.There are two types of Achilles injuries: Achilles tendonitisAchilles ruptureTendonitis is a more short-term injury that can generally be managed without professional medical intervention.It occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed and swollen, and can be treated in as little as two to three weeks through rest, ice and support.An Achilles rupture is a far more serious injury that requires medical attention.This is when the fibres in the tendon break or tear, either partially or fully, which can result in a 'popping' noise.Depending on how serious the tear is, it could require surgery.How long does it take to recover from an Achilles rupture?Elite athletes who suffer an Achilles rupture will generally be booked in for surgery as soon as possible, consultant physiotherapist Nick Worth told BBC Sport."The quality of repair to the tendon is better when surgery is done quickly, instead of leaving it," he said.In terms of recovery, Worth says an Achilles rupture is a "very significant" injury that can result in a simi...