- the Achilles tendon is strongest and longest tendon in the body.  It is responsible for transmitting loads up to ten times body weight during running, jumping, and hopping (O'Brien, 2005)
- the Achilles tendon is subject to compressive, shearing, & stretching forces
- understanding the state and stage of tendon pathology is important for targeting successful rehabilitation strategies
- pain can sometimes be an indicator to progress tendon loading; however some Achilles tendons may not be painful but may still have signs of tendon pathology
- it is important to fully rehabilitate the Achilles tendon and the address forces acting on the tendon to avoid injury reoccurrence