5 Strategies for Protecting the Achilles Tendon When Working Out

The last thing anyone needs while keeping up with their new year’s resolution to get in shape is to face a sports injury like an Achilles tendon rupture. Painful and debilitating, an injury to the Achilles tendon can take weeks to heal, especially if surgery is required.

Unfortunately, an Achilles rupture tear is relatively common among people who are striving very hard to be in shape. Learn how to protect the Achilles tendon in order to keep the “get fit” resolution going strong.

  1. Always stretch before exercise. One of the leading causes of Achilles tendon issues is the failure to stretch prior to exercise. The tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel, so it is constantly under pressure. When the Achilles tendon is used during exercise without being loosened through stretching, it is especially prone to succumbing to the pressure by rupturing or tearing.
  2. Wear the right shoes for the right terrain. An Achilles tendon ruptures when it has been extended too far. Exercising on rough terrain without the proper shoes forces the tendon to extend and retract farther and faster, risking injury. If this motion causes a rupture, then Achilles tendon surgery may be necessary. This procedure is invasive and takes several weeks to heal.
  3. Don’t overdo the exercising. Likewise, Achilles tendon surgery may be imminent for people who embrace their “get fit” resolution too emphatically. The body needs time to rest and recover from exercise, or else muscles and tendons like the Achilles tendon may be overworked to the point of injury or serious damage.
  4. Never jump into intense exercise too quickly. People who jump into their exercise resolutions too quickly and forcefully may cause excessive stress to the body, including the tendons and muscles. The body needs time to work up to certain levels of exercise as well as time to grow and get strong before performing certain activities. It is best to include a strength training plan when suddenly changing the body’s exercise routine dramatically.
  5. Avoid certain antibiotics and injections. Steroid injections in the ankles, as well as certain types of antibiotics, can also put the Achilles tendon at risk. Avoid antibiotics like Cipro or Levaquin when planning to work out often or challenge the body physically.

For More Information, Contact Christopher E. Hubbard, MD Today.

If you’re suffering from a ruptured Achilles tendon, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Relief can be yours with help from us. Call us today at 212-844-6940 to schedule an appointment. We hope to hear from you soon.