Who Are at Risk?Athletes
People who play competitive sports and athletes are more prone to Achilles tendon rupture. Not warming up enough before training, sudden start or stop or fall can rupture the tendon. Excessive training can also put the tendon under repeated micro-traumas that can add up to a symptomatic rupture.Age
The blood supply to tendons decreases as you age. People with age 30 and over are relatively more prone to tendon rupture.
Arthritis
Ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis may also put a person at a greater risk of Achilles tendinopathy.
Wearing High Heels
Women who wear high heels regularly are at risk of Achilles tendon rupture, as wearing heels shortens the tendon making it more prone to rupture.
Gender
Achilles tendon rupture is 5 times more likely to occur in men than in women.
Antibiotics
Use of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro), gemifloxacin (Factive), or levofloxacin (Levaquin), puts a person at temporary risk for tendon injury.
Overweight or obesity
Excess weight puts more strain on the Achilles tendon, which makes it prone to rupture.
High-Arched Feet
People with high-arched feet are associated with a higher risk of developing Achilles tendinopathy, because high arches bear more weight on the balls and heels of the feet, putting more strain on the Achilles tendon.
Leg-Length Discrepancy
Even a small amount of leg-length discrepancy can cause the body to compensate and put soft-tissue structures like the Achilles tendon at risk for injury.
Steroid Injections
These are used to treat pain and inflammation, however, they affect the nearby tendons, making them weak and prone to injury.
Takeaway
Achilles tendon rupture can heal with rest and bracing, but sometimes surgery is required. If you are experiencing recurrent pain or weakness at the back of the heel or ankle, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Consult our orthopedic specialists to learn more about Achilles tendon health.
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics provides the most effective, modern, and innovative techniques in both Orthopedic Surgery and Pain Management using proven methodologies in both the surgical and non-surgical treatment of all conditions affecting the spine, upper extremities, and lower extremities. We specialize in hand and wrist surgery, joint replacements, sports medicine, trauma care, pediatric orthopedics, pain management, wound care, regenerative medicine, physical therapy, imaging services, and EMG testing.
Reach Out Today