Incidence of Achilles tendon rupture

TLDR

The study aimed to determine the incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in Oulu over 1979‑1994. Incidence was assessed by reviewing all recorded ruptures in the city over the 16‑year period. Incidence rose from 2 to 12 per 10^5 inhabitants (mean 7), peaking at 18 in 1994, with the highest rates in ages 30‑39, a 5.5:1 male predominance, and 81% of ruptures linked to sports—88% in ball games—where athletes were younger on average.

Abstract

We determined the incidence of a total Achilles tendon rupture in the city of Oulu and changes over the 16-year period 1979-1994. During this time, 110 ruptures occurred. The incidence increased from 2 ruptures/10(5) inhabitants in 1979-1986 to 12 in 1987-1994, with a mean of 7. The peak annual incidence, 18, was recorded in 1994. The incidence was highest in the age group 30-39 years. Male dominance was 5.5:1, and 81% of the ruptures were related to sports, with 88% occurring in ball games. The mean age was significantly lower for the sports injuries.