The achilles tendon Complications Partial/no resolution of symptoms- 5-15% Recurrence of symptoms-10% Wound problems-1-2% Delayed healing, wound breakdown, scar sensitivity, adhesion of scar to tendon. Deep vein thrombosis /PE-0.5% Wound infection-1% Delayed return to function/activities Problems of the Achilles insertion There are two main problems, which may co-exist. The first is a prominent bone into which the tendon inserts. This leads to a lump at the back of the heel and local pain/irritation from the counter of a shoe. This bony lump is known as a Hagglunds deformity. 
A right sided Hagglunds deformity
An x-ray of the calcaneum showing a Hagglunds deformity (1).
The second problem is that the tendon itself may become degenerate at the point of its insertion, this is known as insertional tendinosis. 
Significant amount of calcification within the insertion of the Achilles tendon, indicative of degeneration within the tendon
A right sided Hagglunds deformity with considerable soft tissue swelling, probable associated insertional tendinosis.
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