David Beckham’s World Cup dream has ended following the England footballer a break down ruptured Achilles Tendon. Pain Control look at the more common Achilles injury – Achilles Tendonitis and offer advice on how the injury could be avoided.
Achilles tendonitis is tendonitis of the Achilles tendon, generally precipitated by overuse of the affected limb and it is more prevalent among athletes training under less than ideal conditions. It shouldn’t be confused with xanthoma from the tendon, which is the accumulation of cholesterol in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia.
Treatment is possible with ice, cold compression therapy, wearing heel pads to reduce the stress on the tendon, as well as an workout designed to strengthen the tendon.
Seeing a professional for treatment as quickly as possible is essential, as this injury can lead to an Calf msucles rupture with continued overuse.
Treatment
Treatment may include Cold compression therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for example ibuprofen, ultrasound therapy, manual therapy techniques, a rehabilitation program, as well as in rare cases, application of a plaster cast. Steroid injection may also be used, but should be done after very careful, expert consideration because it can increase the risk of tendon rupture. Severe cases may require surgery from an orthopaedic surgeon or podiatric surgeon.
Avoiding Achilles Tendonitis
1. Wearing the right footwear and sports footwear can help prevent Achilles Tendonitis
2. Warm up before stretching and exercising
3. Strengthening the leg muscles, particularly the leg muscles might help avoid Achilles tendonitis.
4. Test for injuries after exercise. If can be done to check on for Achilles Tendonitis by pinching the Achilles tendon. This may assist in avoiding severe injury
Pain Control products
Pain Control products include
1. Tendon Protector
2. Silicone Gel Heel Cups
3. Silicone Gel Covered Insoles
4. Full Length Silicone Gel Covered Insoles
5. Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint