Five expert steps to take to protect your Achilles tendon

Injuring the tendon is not just a concern of elite athletes - weekend warriors and sofa surfers are also at risk. Here's how to protect yours 

Pic: iStock

It’s the longest and strongest tendon in the human body, the Achilles, but age, stress, and wear and tear can take their toll, sometimes at a catastrophic cost. 

In recent weeks, 1500m star Ciara Mageean, who is European champion, withdrew from the Olympics due to an Achilles injury, while Cork camogie player Gráinne Cahalane had to miss the All-Ireland final against Galway at Croke Park because she ruptured hers.