Fitness & Exercise

Achilles Tendon Injury

When Will I Feel Better?

Of course, what you really want to know is when you can get back in the game. Recovery time may take months, but it really depends on how serious your Achilles tendon injury is. Different conditions heal at different rates.

You can still be active while your injury heals. Try a new activity that won't aggravate your Achilles tendon such as swimming.

Don't rush things. Do not try to return to your old level of physical activity until:

• You can move your leg as easily and freely as your uninjured leg.
• Your leg feels as strong as your uninjured leg.
• You feel no pain in your leg when you walk, jog, sprint, or jump.

If you start pushing yourself before your Achilles tendon injury is fully healed, you could wind up with permanent pain and disability.

How Can I Prevent an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are things you can do to prevent an Achilles tendon injury. You should:

• Always stretch your leg muscles and Achilles tendons before and after exercise -- more often if your muscles and tendons are tight.
• Cut down on uphill running.
• Wear shoes with good support that fit well.
• Always increase the intensity of your physical activity slowly.
• Stop exercising if you feel pain or tightness in the back of your calf or heel.