Last year Gordon Ramsey, celebrity chef, tore his Achilles tendon while preparing for the Iron Man triathlon. Since then the injury has not healed properly causing Ramsey to wear a brace to help support his foot. Recently Ramsey was seen walking around California with the brace since he is in the middle of a very intense fitness regime. The chef had started participating in diets and triathlons a few years ago with the help of his wife after realizing that he could no longer see his mid-section anymore. He wears the brace and continues to hope for full recovery to return to his newly found athletic ways.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Marc R. Frankel of The Frankel Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can cause severe difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
– Inflammation
– Dull to Severe Pain
– Increased blood flow to the tendon
– Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
– Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
– Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
– Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
– Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Milford, PA, Warwick, NY, and Middletown, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
