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September 18, 2023
Dr. Thomas Sanders Analyzes Aaron Rodgers' Achilles Rupture
Last night, on Monday, September 11th, 2023, in a shocking turn of events, Aaron Rodgers, the star quarterback of the New York Jets, suffered a devastating Achilles tendon rupture during his season debut. "Typically, these injuries happen during non-contact situations when there is forced dorsiflexion while pushing off, resulting in eccentric contracture of the muscle" explained foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Thomas Sanders.
Achilles tendon ruptures can be treated either operatively or non-operatively, although professional athletes almost always opt for surgery due to the quicker, more reliable recovery and the slight increase in strength it offers. The average return to play for a professional athlete after Achilles tendon repair is 9-12 months, so this injury is definitely a season-ender for Rodgers. Hopefully, he will be ready to go for week 1 of the next season.
Achilles tendon ruptures can be managed through either surgical or non-surgical methods. However, professional athletes like Rodgers often opt for surgery due to its faster and more reliable recovery outcomes, along with the potential for slightly increased strength.
Reports emerged this weekend that Aaron Rodgers underwent an “innovative and new” procedure that involved putting an “internal brace” in his Achilles. There is optimism that he could potentially return to the field by January for a playoff run.
Update: Sep.19th, 2023
The “mid substance speedbridge “ procedure that Rodgers underwent has been in use for a while. It involves fixing the Achilles tendon with standard technique, but then using two bone anchors to secure the proximal tendon directly to the bone. The Orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons at OFAC have been doing this technique for many years. While there is no good evidence that this will speed up recovery to a significant degree, the fixation to bone does make a stronger construct. The weakest part of an Achilles repair is the tendon/suture interface. So this speedbridge technique bypasses that. "I am still doubtful that Rodgers will be playing in 4 months, but it will be interesting to follow for sure. " said Dr. Sanders.
The Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Center specializes in treating sports injuries, including Achilles tendon ruptures. If you're in need of a foot and ankle orthopedic physician, call or schedule your appointment online today.
Watch Dr. Sanders' give a lecture on surgery vs. non-surgical option for Achilles tendon ruptures.