The tendons are best described as thick bands of tissue that are responsible for connecting muscles to bones in the joints. The common locations where tendons are found include the ankles, knees, elbows and shoulders. Once these are overused, incorrectly conditioned or exposed to certain medical conditions, the tendons can end up torn or ruptured. The symptoms of tendon rupture include a popping sensation once the rupture occurs along with bruising, pain and weakness of the affected joint. The treatment for a ruptured tendon typically includes the application of a cast to allow the tendon to heal and even surgery in severe cases. Both treatment options will take up to six months to heal and restore the functionality of the tendon.
Injuries resulting to tendon rupture
The common cause of a tendon rupture is injury. A tendon can rupture in a weakened region once a traumatic event occurred in that area. In most cases, the Achilles tendon in the foot or the patellar tendon in the knee can tear or rupture when the individual runs, jumps, falls or trips. Even lifting of heavy objects and falls can lead to tendon rupture in the shoulder or arm.
When an individual sustains an injury that leads to tendon rupture, you have to provide the appropriate first aid care to prevent further injury. By enrolling in a first aid course, you will learn how to properly manage this type of injury. If you want to learn more about first aid training for this injury, click here.
Age of the individual
Due to the normal aging process, the blood supply in the body starts to diminish as one ages. The decreased supply of blood will eventually lead to the weakening of the tendons. The region of the tendon that receives the least amount of blood is most likely to weaken. This weakened area will continue to deteriorate with age and increases the risk for tendon rupture. Most middle-aged individuals who engage in sports or strenuous activities can suffer from ruptured tendons.
Certain medical conditions
There are medical conditions that can cause a drop in the blood supply to the tendons. These conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, chronic renal failure and diabetes which increase the risk of the individual for developing tendon rupture. Other conditions such as tendonitis which involves the inflammation of a tendon will also increase the likelihood of a ruptured tendon.
Medication
There are medications that can increase the risk for developing tendon rupture. Corticosteroids can lead to the weakening of the tendons thus increasing the risk to rupture. Based on studies, there is also a group of antibacterial medications known as fluoroquinolones that can cause tendon rupture. The elderly and those with chronic conditions are at high risk for developing a ruptured tendon once these medications are taken.