A ruptured Achilles tendon will keep Charlotte Bobcats small forward Jeff Taylor sidelined for the remainder of the season. Taylor suffered the injury during the Bobcats’ recent game against the Detroit Pistons. No one knows for sure how long he’ll be out for, but his team thinks his recovery could extend into next season.
“What I relayed to him is it’s unfortunate for him and really unfortunate for his teammates, because he’s a big part of this team,” said Steve Clifford, the Bobcats’ coach. “But his mindset has to be on his career now. And for his career, it shouldn’t be a problem.”
Achilles tendon injuries are very painful, and recovering from one can take a long time. For more information about damage to your Achilles, consult with a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Dr. Hyman can provide you with a professional medical opinion to help you rehabilitate from an injury or prevent yourself from getting one.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body, and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to Severe Pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation. Often the doctor will order an MRI to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment will involve rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
For more information about Achilles Tendon Injuries, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
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