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Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge
Bone & Joint Staff • March 4, 2020
5 Ways to Prevent an Achilles Tendon Rupture

The Achilles tendon is the largest in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It allows the foot to point downward and push off, making activities such as running and jumping possible.  It is strong, durable, and experiences a load of up to 10 times a person’s body weight during physical activity. 

 Still, it is the most commonly injured tendon in the lower extremity, affecting anywhere from 6 to 18 percent of athletes each year. Because of this high rate of injury during athletic pursuits such as basketball, running, and soccer, athletes must take exceptional care to prepare their bodies and prevent such complications. While there is no foolproof way to avoid an Achilles rupture, the following techniques can significantly reduce risk.


Strengthen and Stretch Calf Muscles

Because the Achilles tendon is connected directly to the calf muscles, the stronger they are, the more they can reduce stress on the tendon. As for stretching, any part of the body is far less susceptible to injury when it is warmed up and flexible. Taking time to warm up and stretch rather than jumping right into an activity can give both calf muscles and the Achilles time to adjust and prepare for the task ahead.


Switching Up Exercises to Protect the Achilles

Having the same repetitive motion over and over again can exacerbate stress on the body parts involved. By mixing up your routine, you can give certain areas a chance to rest while building others. So, if you typically enjoy high-impact sports such as running, mix in a low-impact alternative such as biking or swimming from time to time as well.


Keep a Safe Training Pace

Sudden increases in training intensity are among the most common causes of Achilles injuries. Just as you should warm up and stretch before each workout, you should also take time to gradually increase your intensity. While you may be excited to jump ahead and see results, you are increasing the likelihood that you’ll see an Achilles rupture instead.


Choose a Safe Running Surface to Avoid Injury

When running, it is important to consider the surface. A track type surface is a great choice. However, that isn’t always an option. When choosing your running path, look for surfaces that are neither too hard nor slippery. You’ll also want to avoid paths that are uneven and could cause you to trip or step into a hole.


Select the Appropriate Gear for Your Type of Workout

Generally speaking, you’ll want to select footwear that is well-fitted, provides adequate arch support, cushion and heel support. You will also want to take into account the surface you’ll be on. A basketball court can require different traction than a running shoe, and soccer cleats are another issue entirely. Take the time to visit a high-quality shoe store with trained professionals who can help you select the perfect shoe for your foot and sport needs.


Achilles Doctors in Baton Rouge

If you do find yourself in the unfortunate situation of an Achilles injury, the foot and ankle specialists at Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge are here to help! Simply click below to learn more about our physicians and schedule an appointment.



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The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • February 11, 2025
Damage to the meniscus, which serves as a cushion between the thigh and shin bones, can cause severe pain and impair movement.
Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • January 31, 2025
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Bone & Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge Physician Practice Transition – Effective April 1, 2025

By Bone and Joint Clinic Staff • January 30, 2025
BATON ROUGE, LA, January 30, 2025 – Effective April 1, 2025, four distinguished orthopedic surgeons from The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will transition to Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic (BROC), continuing their commitment to providing high-quality orthopedic care. The physicians joining BROC are: 1. Joseph "Jeb" Broyles, MD – Specializes in joint replacement surgery, knee arthroscopy, and cartilage regeneration. 2. Arthur "Art" Hess, MD – Specializes in trauma, hip, knee, and shoulder reconstruction, and total joint replacement surgery. 3. Mat hew "Matt" Mazoch, M D – Specializes in shoulder and knee surgery. 4. Alan Schroeder, MD – Specializes in sports medicine and shoulder surgery. Beginning April 1, 2025, these physicians will operate under BROC's umbrella while continuing to see patients at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge's current location, 7301 Hennessy Blvd. Eventually, the doctors plan to transition to BROC's campus on Bluebonnet Blvd. The estimated timeline for that move is Summer/Fall 2025. In addition, Dr. Patrick Hall will be transitioning to his own practice, Hall Podiatry, that will continue to provide quality podiatric care to patients. Dr. Hall will continue to practice at 7301 Hennessy Blvd. until May/June 2025. After that date, patients may see him at a new nearby location. Dr. Zachary Rohr and Christopher Belleau will also transition their practice to a new location effective March 31, 2025. We will update our patients once those details are finalized. Dr. Gerard Murtagh of The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will be retiring effective March 2025. Dr. Murtagh has been a vital part of the clinic since 1988 and has significantly contributed to its success. We thank Dr. Murtagh for his many years of service to the patients of Bone & Joint Clinic. Patients are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge using the current process for the foreseeable future. To ensure a seamless transition, The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will provide detailed information to patients in the coming weeks, including the secure transfer of medical records and continuity of care. The health and well-being of patients remain the top priority, and The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge, BROC, and Hall Podiatry are working together to make this transition as smooth as possible while maintaining uninterrupted care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge at 225-766-0050 or by visiting bjcbr.com . Patients can also reach BROC at 225-924-2424 or by visiting brortho.com .
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