The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. Its ailments are linked to the everyday activities of walking, running and jumping. Given the enormous interest in sport and physical activity, problems related to the Achilles tendon are extremely common.

The scientific literature is full of article on this tendon, but we believe that we have still much to learn: even management of a ‘simple’ Achilles tendon tear is controversial.

We have a long-lasting interest in all aspects of Achilles tendon, and it has been a pleasure to be able to coagulate around us a host of distinguished colleagues to write about several aspects of management of Achilles tendon problems. Inevitably, being surgeons, the major thrust has been about surgery and surgical techniques: we believe that we have given an upto-date picture of the present trends in this field.

This issue will be invaluable for orthopaedic surgeons, sports medicine and exercise physicians, physiotherapists and podiatrists who deal with patients with Achilles tendon problems, which are sometimes perceived as being intractable, and, through prolonged absence from training and competition, can end sporting career