Alex Trebek Jeopardizes his Foot/Ankle

Alex Trebek, the famous Jeopardy host, tore his Achilles tendon last week after chasing a burglar from his hotel room. He jeopardized his ability to walk due to this sudden foot injury. Alex tore his Achilles tendon, which is a severe injury that will keep him off of his feet for a while and entails a long period of recover.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a complete or partial tear that occurs when the tendon is stretched beyond its capacity. Forceful jumping or pivoting, or sudden accelerations of running, can overstretch the tendon and cause a tear. An injury to the tendon can also result from falling or tripping.

Achilles tendon ruptures are most often seen in "weekend warriors" – typically, middle-aged people participating in sports in their spare time. Less commonly, illness or medications, such as steroids or certain antibiotics, may weaken the tendon and contribute to ruptures.

Signs and symptoms of a person with a ruptured Achilles tendon may include sudden pain (which feels like a kick or a stab) in the back of the ankle or calf, a popping or snapping sensation, swelling on the back of the leg between the heel and the calf, difficulty in walking (especially upstairs or uphill) and/or difficulty rising up on the toes.

Treatment options for an Achilles tendon rupture include surgical and non-surgical approaches. The decision of whether to proceed with surgery or non-surgical treatment is based on the severity of the rupture and the patient’s health status and activity level.

Non-surgical treatment, which is generally associated with a higher rate of re-rupture, is selected for minor ruptures, less active patients, and those with medical conditions that prevent them from undergoing surgery. Non-surgical treatment involves use of a cast, walking boot or brace to restrict motion and allow the torn tendon to heal.

Surgery, which Alex underwent, offers important potential benefits. Besides decreasing the likelihood of re-rupturing the Achilles tendon, surgery often increases the patient’s push-off strength and improves muscle function and movement of the ankle. Various surgical techniques are available to repair the rupture. The surgeon will select the procedure best suited to the patient.

If you or someone you know suffers from pain in the Achilles tendon area and possibly has a traumatic injury, please feel free to contact our office and set-up a consultation, 440-946-5858. We always have emergency slots!