In the past month Achilles tendon injuries have been
prominently discussed on the sports pages. World renown soccer star, David
Beckham ruptured his Achilles tendon in early March and recently Laker center,
Andrew Bynum strained his Achilles. If you recall, Olympic champion volleyball
player, Misty May-Treanor tore her Achilles tendon, not on the sand, but on the
TV-show, "Dancing With the Stars." A word to every athlete, whether you're pro
or a weekend warrior- DON'T MESS WITH YOUR ACHILLES TENDON.
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It
can become weak two inches above the heel due to a lack of blood supply. This is
where most ruptures occur. May-Treanor and Beckham both experienced this level
of injury. Sports requiring jumping, pivoting, and running put strain on the
tendon.
The tendon becomes weaker with age and can literally rupture
or snap. Full recovery is a painfully laborious process. I've found that
athletes get 80 -90 percent of their strength back in the injured leg. David
Beckham starts a water physical therapy program next month, six weeks after his
recent surgery. He won't be able to play soccer for 6 months and will miss the
World Cup.
For Laker fans, the news is much better. Andrew Bynum's
strained Achilles should only sideline him to rest and rehab for 3 weeks and he
should be ready for the play-offs. This isn't an injury you want to have happen.
A good prevention program includes stretching, strengthening, wearing good
shoes, and orthotics. If you feel consistent pain in this area, don't push it.
Come in for an exam.
