The Achilles tendon is located at the top of the heel and is located in the lower part of the calf muscles. The Achilles Tendon, which is the strongest tendon in the human body, undertakes the most important task in running and walking.
How does the Achilles Tendon break? What Happens?
Achilles tendinitis is a germ-free inflammation of the tendon and has many causes. But it is mainly caused by the changing foot and ankle biomechanics. In flat feet, more load is placed on the inner part and the inner part of the tendon becomes inflamed. They cause Achilles tendinitis with the same effect in other biomechanical problems (weak or tight calf muscle, stiffness in the ankle, wrong shoes). Another major reason is improper training. The sudden increase in training duration and intensity causes an excessive load on the tendon. Poor field conditions, wearing wrong and unsuitable shoes are among the other reasons.
The athlete complains of increased pain with training. If the training or running continues, the pain becomes very severe and swelling occurs. Often the tendon feels stiff in the morning. The Achilles tendon thickens and is sensitive.
Ice compresses, rest and bandages are applied initially as treatment. If the pain is excessive, analgesic is added. Sports activities are prohibited until the complaints are resolved. Anti-inflammatory drugs can be given.
Physical therapy is started. Once the inflammation subsides, the chiropractor or physiotherapist begins a program of strengthening and stretching the calf muscles. If the ankle is stiff, it is opened and strengthened with physiotherapy.
Most Achilles tendon ruptures are seen in advanced ages, but tendinitis is also seen frequently in young athletes. Characteristically, the tendon is torn a certain distance above where it attaches to the bone, and this region is the region with the least blood flow. There is a direct relationship between aging and low blood flow in this area. Sometimes it refers to hearing a voice. There is swelling and pain. There is a loss of strength in the foot. When he touches it with his hand, he feels a gap in the tendon area. The Thompson test performed with prone foot thrust is positive.
In young athletes, recovery and return to sports will occur as soon as possible after surgical intervention. Two torn ends meet It is sewn upright. An ankle plaster cast is applied.
A plaster cast is applied in the elderly and incomplete tears. Meanwhile, in recent years, arthroscopy has been repaired and successful results have begun to be published.
Physical therapy should be applied after a recovery period of 6-12 weeks. Returning to sports without a good and full recovery may cause re-ruptures.
Can Achilles Tendon Rupture Be Prevented?
Our advice here is a good warm-up, proper stretching exercises, It is a suitable sports shoe with a supported heel. Another very important point is to rest, apply ice compresses and consult a doctor immediately in case of the slightest pain.
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