• Most Achilles pain is caused by one of two problems:
Partial or complete tears (ruptures) of the tendon, resulting in sudden pain and loss of mobility and often caused by forceful movements that strain the calf muscle
• Achilles tendonitis (sometimes spelled tendinitis), inflammation of the tendon caused by overuse, repetitive use, or strain
Sports injuries are common causes of Achilles tendon pain, and pain can also occur as a result of overuse or failure to warm up before exercising or participating in sports, especially running or hiking. Both Achilles tendon tears and tendonitis are more common among older people and among weekend warrior athletes who tend to push themselves too hard or use improper warm-up or training techniques.