Cincinnati cornerback Leon Hall suffered an Achilles injury during a game versus the Lions. The Bengals player covered Calvin Johnson in the end zone, when both players reached for a high pass that went out of bounds. Hall wound up landing awkwardly during that moment and immediately grabbed his ankle in pain.
Despite Hall being able to walk off the field, he appeared to be fighting back pain from a potential season ending injury. Hall was declared out for the rest of the game and there is no assurance of his return.
Injuring your Achilles tendon can be painful and place a burden on your performance as an athlete or the ability to walk. Seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Henry Slomowitz of New Jersey who can diagnose your foot or ankle injury, and provide you with the best treatments possible for your condition.
Just What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in our bodies. As the tendon that connects the heel to the calf muscles, the Achilles tendon helps with even the most basic movement in the legs such as walking. As a result, the Achilles tendon can risk incurring Achilles tendinitis or even a rupture. Those especially at risk include people who overexert themselves during physical activity, namely athletes.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms Include:
- Inflammation
- Increased Blood Flow
- Tendon Thickening
- Slower Movement Time
- Pain ranging from dull to severe
Achilles Tendon ruptures are caused by the tendon ‘snapping’ or ripping. There are often more painful and immediate as opposed to Achilles tendinitis. There are surgical and non-surgical methods in treating Achilles tendon ruptures, with recovery time possibly taking up to a year.
While no injury is completely avoidable, there are preventive measures that can lower your chances. This includes:
- Incorporating strengthening exercises to your workout regimen such as squats and leg presses
- Stretch your tendon before and after exercise
- Wear comfortable, fitted footwear that is occasion-specific
And of course, if you believe you have injured your Achilles tendon be sure to visit a podiatrist immediately, as they can help diagnose and address your problem.
If you have any questions, please contact our offices in Paterson and Paramus, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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