Achilles Tendonitis Injury
Question: Mary, I am less than 1 week away from running my first long distance race and yesterday I injured what I believe is my left achilles tendon. I stopped immediately and starting icing. I am very disappointed and do not want to miss this race but I also don't want to make the injury worse. It is now 24 hours later and although I walk without a limp I can feel the tendon grab. Other than not running do you have any advise? Thanks, Charlie
Answer: Hello Charlie:
I am sory to hear about your achilles injury. You mention that you are less than a week away from a "long distance" race, but didn't mention the distance. I know it is all relative, but I would be cautious of entering a race with an injured achilles. I advise the standard RICE treatment for your injury:
R- Rest - Don't run on it until it is noticably better
I - Ice - Ice twice a day
C - Compression - perhaps you can wrap it with an ace bandage
E - Elevation - try to keep it elevated
I know it probably isn't much consolation, but keep in mind if you can not do this particular race, there should be plenty of other opportunities to race. I've noticed that there are an ever increasing number of races on the race calendar these days. Hopefully, though, you will be better for this week's race and can participate in it. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. Mary