Tendonitis, The Tendon Strap And You
Although the optimists among us may disagree, the saying that
'if anything
can go wrong, it probably will' is a fairly succinct summation of
the human
foot. Be it muscular or skeletal, chances are that by middle-age
most every
person on this planet has experienced a foot, ankle or leg problem
of some
kind. It stands to reason then, that given the prevalence of such
injuries,
the largest tendon in the human body would be involved in a great
many
number of those. And it most certainly is: Achilles tendon injuries
account
for more than ten percent of active runners' injuries, but are not
strictly
limited to that group. Achilles tendon conditions occur in athletes
of
varying disciplines. And that is where the tendon strap comes in.
Suitable for treatment of Achilles Tendonitis, Achilles tendon
straps are
able to provide relief from pain and discomfort brought about by
the
inflammation of the tendon (what 'tendonitis' is, essentially).
Such
ailments can sideline athletes for a month or more, and treatment
includes
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ice, warm-up and
stretching,
and rest. Not to mention the tendon strap. Used in conjunction with
the
abovementioned forms of therapy, tendon wraps are an excellent way
to keep
moderately active while 'resting' the tendon. Tendon brace straps
work by
reducing stress on the tendon (this is done by spreading muscular
contraction forces away from the Achilles Tendon) and promoting
an early
heel rise.
Time Heals All Wounds... Almost
The onset of tendonitis can occur at any age, with more serious
ruptures and
bursitis occurring in patients in their late twenties and forties,
respectively. The former is characterized by the oft-spoken about
'popping'
sound; moderate pain and swelling. Recovery time is marginally greater
than
for Achilles Tendonitis,
requiring anywhere from six months to a year to
recover sufficiently. Additionally, anything short of surgery will
be
insufficient to solve a tendon problem of this nature. Having said
that
though, a tendon strap in conjunction with a cast, brace, or splint
can
promote recovery and comfort.
Two of the more well-known Achilles tendon straps on the market
are the Chopat and
Pro-Tec products, each of which retail for around $20. The Chopat
device was
developed in cooperation with the Mayo clinic. It fits over or under
socks
and for size, one need only measure the circumference at the widest
portion
of the ankle. The Pro-Tec product, made of CoolMax felt, applies
focused
compression to the tendon to aid recovery.
Other tips to keep in mind during the rehabilitation process (of
Achilles
tendonitis or tendinosis) are to avoid tobacco products because
they
decrease the blood supply and delay tissue repair thereby slowing
the
healing process. Also, alternate exercises such as swimming can
be
undertaken should you wish to remain somewhat active
For these two tendon braces and footcare products of every shape
and
description (and most importantly, price), the right-hand side links
are a
quick, convenient way to cover the vast distances of the information
superhighway. Which is just as well, because if you're looking for
an Achilles tendon
strap, then you probably wouldn't make it all by yourself. Just
a thought.
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