Reality Check: How High Your Risk for an Achilles Tear Is

To some degree, risk can make activities fun. That’s why adrenaline games like airsoft are popular. Groups head out to fields like the Mission Airsoft in San Antonio and pepper each other with pellets that sting, but won’t cause any real damage when proper gear is worn. The risk of being “shot” while playing makes the game fun. Risks for serious injuries, like an Achilles tendon rupture, are not the kind of risks you want, however. These don’t make activities more fun. They simply tell you when you need to be more careful with your lower limbs.

There are multiple factors that increase your risk for tearing your Achilles. This tendon is the biggest one in your body and gets used every time you push off the ground or even point your toes. As such, it regularly deals with high pressures that could potentially tear it. Anything that weakens your tendon increases your risk for the problem. Here are a few of the top influencing factors that make it more likely your tendon will rupture under pressure:

Age – The older you are, the more likely activity could tear your tendon; however, the peak age for this injury is between 30 and 40 years old. Sports – Playing sports that include running, jumping, and sudden direction changes strains your Achilles significantly. Overuse Injuries – Wear and tear on the Achilles weakens it, so it’s not able to handle as much pressure. Weight – Being overweight adds significant stress to your tendon, making it more susceptible to other injuries. Footwear – Shoes that are worn out, inappropriate for your activities, or just unsupportive can contribute to overuse in your tendons. Gender – Men are far more likely to suffer from a torn Achilles than women. Previous Injuries – If you’ve torn your Achilles in the past, or you’re recovering from tendonitis, the tissue is more likely to tear in the future. Of course, having a high risk for an Achilles tendon rupture doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop it. You can take steps to prevent that kind of damage. Conditioning your lower limbs, wearing appropriate shoes for your activities, and cross-training with low-impact sports can help you avoid straining your Achilles to the point it tears. Let Dr. Darren Silvester and the Next Step Foot and Ankle Clinic staff in Pleasanton, TX, help you prevent Achilles issues. Call (830) 569-3338 or use our website to get a consultation with us.