Tendons are thick bands of tissue that help connect a muscle to a bone in a joint. Common areas in the body for tendons are the knees, ankles, shoulders and elbows. Due to overuse, improper conditioning and chronic medical conditions, tendons can tear or rupture. Symptoms of a ruptured tendon include feeling a popping sensation when the rupture occurs, weakness in the affected joint, pain and bruising. Treatment for a ruptured tendon includes applying a cast to allow the tendon to heal as well as surgical repair. With both types of treatment, it can take as long as six months to regain full function of the tendon, according to MayoClinic.com.
Injury
The most frequent cause of a ruptured tendon is an injury. A tendon can rupture in a weakened area when a traumatic event occurs to that area of the body. Frequently, the Achilles tendon in the foot or the patellar tendon in the knee ruptures during episodes of jumping, running, falling or tripping. Lifting heavy objects and falling can rupture a tendon in the arm or shoulder.
Age
The blood supply in the body begins to decrease as a person ages. This deceased blood supply weakens the tendons. The area of the tendon with the least amount of blood flow is most likely to weaken. The weakened area continues to degenerate with age and increases the likelihood of rupturing. Many middle-aged individuals who participate in sports or activities in their free time develop ruptured tendons, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions may decrease the blood supply to the tendons. Chronic renal failure, rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes are chronic conditions that may cause an increased risk of developing ruptured tendons. Conditions such as tendonitis, which is an inflammation of the tendon, increase the possibility of rupturing the tendon.
Medications
Certain drugs and medications can increase the risk of developing a ruptured tendon. Medications such as corticosteroids can cause weakness in tendons, which increases the risk of rupturing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that a group of antibacterial medications called fluoroquinolones may cause ruptured tendons. The medications, available in oral and injectable forms, are likely to cause tendon rupture in individuals who also have risk factors such as being over the age of 60, taking corticosteroids or having chronic medical conditions.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Achilles Tendon Rupture
- American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons: Achilles Tendon Rupture
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Biceps Tendon Tear at the Elbow
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Stronger Warnings Requested for Fluoroquinolones
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Patellar Tendon Tear
