Rebounding is a type of cardiovascular exercise that helps to strengthen bone density and tone your muscles. Use of a rebounder can also help you to develop better balance and stability. However the use of a rebounder can also lead to injury if you are not careful. The tremendous amount of stress that rebounding places on your lower extremities can lead to an injury known as an Achilles tendon rupture.
Achilles Tendon Rupture
Your Achilles tendon is the band of tissue that connects the calf muscle to your heel bone. The Achilles tendon is important in raising your heel off of the ground during activities such as walking, running or jumping. A rupture of the Achilles tendon occurs when the tendon is stretched outside of its normal range of motion, often as the result of a fall or trip. When the tendon is stretched beyond its normal capacity, a complete or partial tear or rupture can occur. If you experience an Achilles tendon rupture while rebounding, you are likely to feel sudden pain, hear a popping or snapping sound, notice swelling in the back of your leg and have difficulty walking or rising onto your toes.
Treatment
An Achilles tendon rupture requires treatment from a medical professional. Until you are able to see a doctor, you should use the RICE method. This includes rest, ice, compression and elevation. When you visit your doctor, a medical history and description of how the injury occurred will be taken. Your doctor will also perform a physical exam and may order imaging studies to determine the severity of your rupture. Treatment can include a cast or brace to restrict motion as the tendon heals, the use of crutches or surgery to repair the ruptured tendon. Following your injury, physical therapy will be used to help strengthen and improve range of motion in your Achilles tendon.
Rebounder Warnings
Rebounding can be an effective form of exercise when used correctly. However, there are many dangers of using a rebounder, including damage to your heels. When you use your rebounder, make sure to place it on an even surface. Placing the rebounder on an elevated or uneven surface can cause your feet to slip or lose of balance. If you are training outside, make sure your rebounder is not wet. If you are wearing socks and shoes while rebounding, make sure they are slip-proof. If you are using a rebounder for the first time, take it easy and start out slow in order to avoid placing excessive stress on your lower extremities. If you are an older adult or have a history of foot, heel or other lower extremity injuries or conditions, always consult your doctor prior to using a rebounder.
Stretching
Just like any other form of exercise, you should always stretch and warm up prior to using a rebounder. You should consider a five- to 10-minute warm-up, which can include walking or using an ellitpical machine. Following your warm-up, make sure to stretch your lower extremities. Stretching can include a calf stretch, toe raises, a plantar fascia stretch, a hamstring stretch and ankle circles. Warming up and stretching can help to loosen the tendons, muscles and ligaments of your lower extremities -- including your Achilles tendon and its surrounding structures. This can help prevent injury while rebounding.
