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Gavin Henson suffers Achilles tendon injury - 21/11/08

Welsh international rugby player Gavin Henson has been ruled out of Wales’ upcoming tests with an Achilles tendon injury.

Rugby union player Henson is expected to be out for at least a month and will miss the remainder of Wales’ autumn International Series.

He has also been ruled out of upcoming Tests against Canada, New Zealand and Australia.

The Ospreys player was forced to withdraw from the squad that lost 20-15 to South Africa in Cardiff less than 24 hours before kick off.

Henson saw a specialist for a scan on 11th November to confirm the extent of the injury, indicate a recovery time scale and provide an injury specific training programme.

He is expected to return to action for the Lions tour to South Africa in summer and be fully fit for the 2009 Six Nations.

The 26 year old has suffered from the long standing Achilles tendon problem for 18 months and needed painkilling injections to get through this year’s Six Nations.

Henson’s career has been blighted with injuries, with the latest causing him to miss the start of the season with ankle surgery at the end of April. A knee injury and shoulder problems also ruined his 2006/07 season.

Achilles tendonitis

Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis

Pain: Usually comes on gradually but can also be sudden. The tendon feels tender above the heel when pressed.

Swelling/thickness: Following injury the tendon may appear thick or swollen slightly above the heel bone.

Stiffness: The tendon often feels stiff on starting exercise after a period of inactivity, e.g. sitting in the car, sitting at a desk or first thing in the morning. It usually eases off after normal daily activities begin.

Causes of Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is usually caused by excessive use of the calf muscle and tendon in extreme ranges of movement like running up and down hills. Achilles tendonitis may also be caused by rough protruding linings in shoes producing tenderness and bruising to the heel, or by friction from shoes with high back or heel tabs. Abnormal biomechanics, like over-pronation (flat feet) are also a major cause.

Treatment for Achilles tendonitis

Upon injury, cold therapy, such as the Vulkan Instant Ice Pack, can help to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Expert advice should be taken in severe cases, use our Find a Practitioner feature to get in touch with a healthcare professional near you. Also consider the use of ankle supports and insoles, such as the Mueller Cho Pat Achilles Tendon Strap, Heel Lifts and Vulkan Short Wedge Heel.