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Contents
  • Warm-Up and Stretching
  • Footwear and Running Mechanics
  • Weight Management and Training Adjustments

Can You Prevent Achilles Tendon Injuries?

Can You Prevent Achilles Tendon Injuries?

Prevention is Key

Preventing Achilles tendon injuries can keep you in the game longer. Discover how simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference.
Contents
  • Warm-Up and Stretching
  • Footwear and Running Mechanics
  • Weight Management and Training Adjustments

Warm-Up and Stretching

Before any intense physical activity, a proper dynamic warm-up is essential. Stretching the calf muscles, including the gastrocnemius and soleus, can help prevent tendon injuries. This should be done both with the knee bent and straight, and can include exercises like standing on the edge of a step and letting the heel descend gradually.

Footwear and Running Mechanics

Choosing the right footwear is crucial. Shoes should support your foot's natural mechanics and prevent excessive supination or pronation. Regularly check your shoes for wear and replace them as needed to ensure they provide adequate support during exercise.
Methods to prevent Achilles tendon injuries through proper warm-ups, stretching, and footwear.

Weight Management and Training Adjustments

Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on your tendons. Adjusting training intensity gradually and avoiding sudden increases in activity can prevent overuse injuries. Athletes taking fluoroquinolones should be cautious, as these medications can increase tendon injury risk.

FAQs

How can warm-ups help?

They prepare the muscles and tendons, reducing injury risk.

Why is footwear important?

Proper footwear supports foot mechanics and prevents injuries.

Can weight affect tendon health?

Yes, maintaining a healthy weight reduces tendon strain.

What about training adjustments?

Gradually increasing activity levels helps prevent injuries.

Stay Ahead

Prevention is your best defense against Achilles injuries.
Get personalized prevention tips from Doctronic today!
Additional References
  1. Johnston CA, Taunton JE, Lloyd-Smith DR, McKenzie DC. Preventing running injuries. Practical approach for family doctors. Can Fam Physician 2003; 49:1101.
  2. van der Vlist AC, Breda SJ, Oei EHG, et al. Clinical risk factors for Achilles tendinopathy: a systematic review. Br J Sports Med 2019; 53:1352.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.