The New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, recent injury has everyone talking “Achilles.” If you've ever experienced a ruptured Achilles, you know how painful and debilitating it can be. The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps you walk, run, jump, and balance. When it tears or ruptures, it can cause intense pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving your foot.
A ruptured Achilles can happen to anyone, but it's more common in people who play sports that involve sudden changes of direction, such as basketball, soccer, tennis or football. It can also occur due to overuse, aging, or underlying conditions that weaken the tendon.
Fortunately, physiotherapy can help you recover from a ruptured Achilles and prevent future injuries. Physiotherapy is a form of treatment that uses physical methods, such as exercises, massage, heat, ice, and electrical stimulation, to improve your health and function.
Here are some of the benefits of physiotherapy for a ruptured Achilles tendon:
Reduce pain and inflammation. Physiotherapists will use various techniques, such as ice packs, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation, to ease your pain and reduce the swelling around your tendon. They will also teach you how to manage your pain at home with self-care tips and advice.
Improve your range of motion and flexibility. Physiotherapists will design a personalized exercise program for you that targets your specific needs and goals. They will help you stretch and strengthen your calf muscles, ankle joint, and foot muscles, which can improve your mobility and prevent stiffness.
Restore your function and performance. Physiotherapists will help you gradually return to your normal activities and sports, depending on your level of recovery and readiness. They will guide you through functional exercises that mimic your daily tasks or sports movements, such as walking, running, jumping, or pivoting. They will also provide you with braces, splints, or orthotics to support your foot and ankle if needed.
Prevent complications and recurrence. Physiotherapists will educate you on how to prevent further damage to your tendon and avoid re-injury. They will teach you how to warm up properly before exercise, how to modify your activities or equipment to reduce stress on your tendon, and how to recognize the signs of overuse or fatigue. They will also monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
If you have a ruptured Achilles or suspect you might have one, immediately seek professional help. Physiotherapy can make a significant difference to your recovery and quality of life. Contact Advanced Physiotherapy in White Rock today to book an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists. We're here to help you get back on your feet!