Returning to Sports After an Achilles Tendon Rupture
Returning to Sports After an Achilles Tendon Rupture
An ATR (Achilles tendon rupture) is a rather common injury among individuals who tend to be physically active. This is especially evident among middle-aged men who take part in sports on a recreational basis. It is estimated that almost 80% of the people who rupture their Achilles tendons tend to return to the activity they participated in following rehabilitation.
Currently the medical community is trying hard to find an optimal treatment for such injuries.
Why are not all able to return to sports following ATR?
Different results based on sports
Research has been conducted among elite male athletes in the USA. It has been found that the number of such athletes returning to play following an ATR is 61% to 100%, depending on the sport they are affiliated with. Players in the NBA (National Basketball Association) have performed the worst compared to athletes from other sports.
The goals of postoperative phases
In the immediate four weeks following an Achilles rupture repair, the primary goal is to make sure that the healing tissue is properly protected. Healthcare professionals also look to control pain while eliminating or, at least, decreasing edema and inflammation of the surgically operated area. They also aim to prevent wound infection and muscle atrophy so that scar formation in the operated area can be minimised.
Conclusion
Nowadays, medical science has progressed to such an extent that any person with ATR can return to playing within three months of such a grievous injury. Treatment may involve an injection and immobilisation in an air cast boot, or possible surgery.
It is important to contact a foot and ankle specialist as soon as possible following an Achilles rupture so you can carry out the suggested treatment and get back to normal activities, avoiding the risk of recurrent injuries in the future.
