Achilles ruptures in professional athletes introduction For all NFL fans, one injury has dominated headlines during this particular year.
Achilles ruptures in professional athletes introduction For all NFL fans, one injury has dominated headlines during this particular year. Just four plays into the season, many watched Aaron Rodgers suffer an Achilles injury. There have been multiple similar injuries including quarterback Kirk Cousins, running back JK Dobbins and cornerback Tre’Davious White.
Just last week, Jaelan Phillips unfortunately fell victim to this devastating injury. Achilles tendon (AT) injuries are somewhat common among athletes, with ruptures occurring most frequently during athletic participation, notably soccer, tennis, basketball, and football. Professional athletes participating in frequent acceleration and direction changes with excessive eccentric loading of the AT are at a relatively high risk of AT rupture.
The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in the general population ranges from 8.3 to 24 per 100,000, and it appears to be increasing with time. The majority of Achilles tendon ruptures are sports related. While the optimal treatment for Achilles tendon ruptures continues to be debated, there are proponents for surgical repair in elite athletes.
Considering the financial and career implications in addition to the unique physical demands placed on athletes returning to professional sports, it is paramount to determine the impact that AT rupture and repair can have on the livelihood and career outlook of these athletes. Https://www.youtube.com/shorts/0ZGvzJtkGkU Video 1 : Most recent Achilles rupture in the NFL, Jaelan Phillips. Despite near limitless resources to help facilitate appropriate rehabilitation, an Achilles tendon rupture can be a career threatening injury among elite athletes.
Significant decreases in return to play (RTP), play time, and performance have been shown in NBA and NFL players who sustain an Achilles tendon rupture requiring surgical repair at various investigated time points. Overall, these studies document an approximate 60% to 70% RTP rate among NBA and NFL players. One review in 2013 evaluated major professional sports and included a total of 322 athletes.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to achilles ruptures in professional athletes, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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