From tennis and soccer to football and running, organized and individual sports activities are the key to a healthy lifestyle.However, they may also result in common sports injuries that require medical attention.

Achilles Tendon Rupture

One of the largest,but yet most vulnerable, tendons in the body is the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon joins the calf and soleus muscles of the lower leg to the heel of the foot. While tendons are strong, they are not very flexible and therefore are more likely to become inflamed or tear and rupture. An Achilles tendon rupture can happen suddenly and may be linked to weak calf muscles or previous injuries. Muscles that are weak and fatigued can be tightened and shortened, which increases the stress on the Achilles tendon, resulting in the rupture. A classic sign of Achilles tendon rupture is the feeling of being hit with something in the heal area and often a “popping” sound is heard. While there may be minimal pain, the person will be unable to extend the ankle because the tendon is no longer attached to the heelbone.

Ruptured Achilles tendons may require surgery and several months of rehabilitation. Partial tears can usually be treated with surgery followed by a carefully planned rehabilitation exercise program. Physical therapy will help to regain flexibility and strength.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries usually occurs when an athlete changes direction rapidly, twisting without moving his or her feet, slows down abruptly, or misses a landing from a jump. The ACL and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) cross each other inside theknee joint, providing stability to the joint. Typical injuries to the ACL are a sprains but when severe it may result in a complete rupture. A complete rupture will severely compromise the stability of the knee joint. ACL injuries are often seen in football or soccer but may occur in almost any type of sport. Women are more likely to suffer an ACL tear than men, the cause for this is not fully understood but it may be related to the fact that valgus (knock knee’s) deformity in the knee joint occurs more frequently in women. This will make the knee joint more susceptible to injury.ACL tears that are incomplete are treated conservatively to allow the body to heal the injury on its own. Ice, rest, compression, and elevation are effective immediate treatments. Physical therapy is later used to build muscle strength and stability. For complete tears of the ACL, surgery is usually required.

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