Are You at Risk for Achilles Tendon Injuries?
Are You at Risk for Achilles Tendon Injuries?
Understanding the Risks
Achilles tendon injuries can put a damper on your activities. Find out what makes you more susceptible and how to manage risk.
Contents
- Common Risk Factors
- Lifestyle and Medications
- Preventive Measures
Common Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of Achilles tendon injuries, including age, gender, and previous tendon issues. Men aged 30 to 40 are particularly at risk. Being overweight or having foot misalignment can also contribute to tendon problems.
Lifestyle and Medications
Participation in sports that involve sudden starts and stops can elevate risk. Cold-weather training is another factor. Additionally, medications like fluoroquinolones and glucocorticoids can increase the likelihood of tendon injuries.
Preventive Measures
Understanding risk factors allows for better management strategies. Warm-up exercises, proper footwear, and gradual training increases can help mitigate these risks. For those on medications that affect tendon health, discussing alternatives with a healthcare provider is advisable.
FAQs
Who is most at risk?
Men aged 30-40, athletes, and those with prior tendon injuries are most at risk.
Can medications increase risk?
Yes, some antibiotics and steroids can elevate tendon injury risk.
What sports increase risk?
Sports with sudden starts and stops, like basketball, increase risk.
How can risk be reduced?
Warm-ups, proper footwear, and gradual training increases can reduce risk.
Stay Informed
Knowing your risk factors is key to preventing injuries.
Additional References
- van der Linden PD, Sturkenboom MC, Herings RM, et al. Fluoroquinolones and risk of Achilles tendon disorders: case-control study. BMJ 2002; 324:1306.
- Holmes GB, Lin J. Etiologic factors associated with symptomatic achilles tendinopathy. Foot Ankle Int 2006; 27:952.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.