About The Achilles Tendon
Treating Achilles Tendon Injuries
Of all of the tendons in the human body, the Achilles tendon is the largest. The muscles at the posterior of the lower leg are attached to the calcaneous (heel bone) by the Achilles tendon. Because if it’s location, the Achilles tendon must withstand a great deal of pressure during strenuous exercise – especially sporting activities that involve a lot of pivoting.
The Achilles tendon is especially prone to two types of injury:
1. Achilles Tendonitis is inflammation caused by overuse.
#2 The Achilles tendon can be torn during strenuous activity.
Achilles Tendonitis Information
Achilles tendonitis is caused by a sudden increase in the intensity of activity to which the Achilles tendon is subjected. So, for example, if you suddenly change the type of training you are doing or greatly increase the intensity of your existing training, you are likely to experience Achilles tendonitis. This is why you must take great care when adding very strenuous exercise to your routine or when returning to exercise after an extended break.
This may manifest as mild pain following exercise that gradually becomes worse. You may experience mild stiffness, swelling, and tenderness upon arising. These symptoms may improve as you move around during the day. You may feel very severe pain in the tendon several hours after you have completed your exercise routines.
If the Achilles tendon is torn, it may be possible to repair it surgically. Tears and toughened, fibrous tissues may be removed with surgery. Rehabilitation to prevent weakness in the ankle will play a part in recovery.
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More Information About A Torn Achilles Tendon
During strenuous activity, it is quite possible to tear the Achilles tendon. This is especially likely to happen while participating in sports. When the Achilles tendon tears, you may actually hear an audible snapping or cracking sound. You may have a partial or complete tear. This injury usually occurs just above the heel bone.
If this happens, you may find that you are not able to bend your foot into a downward position or even to walk normally. This type of injury is very painful and causes a lot of swelling around the heel.
A complete rupture is usually treated with surgery. After surgery, your doctor will have you wear a walking boot or a cast to stabilize your ankle. You will need to do this for about three months.
Torn ligaments can be treated non-surgically by using a below-knee cast; however, this is not as effective as surgical treatment. It takes longer, and the healing is not as complete. You are more likely to have problems in the future when you allow the tendon to heal naturally.
With surgery, there is a much better chance of recovering fully. This is why athletes prefer to have the surgery. It allows them to return to their former level of activity with confidence after an Achilles tendon injury.
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