Is Megan Rapinoe following Aaron Rodgers’ method for Achilles injury? Everything we know so far

Megan Rapinoe and Aaron Rodgers are two of the biggest American sports stars of the past decade. They both play in different sports, but their excellence in their chosen career paths has captivated millions across the globe.

Both Rapinoe and Rodgers suffered significant Achilles injuries in 2023, but they elected to undergo different procedures. Megan Rapinoe recently underwent an Achilles surgery performed by foot and ankle expert Dr. Martin J. O'Malley. This surgery was done to repair her torn Achilles tendon, and she will begin the recovery process in retirement.

According to her Instagram story, Rapinoe is resting at home under the care of partner WNBA legend Sue Bird.

Aaron Rodgers' Achilles surgery

On the other hand, NFL legend Aaron Rodgers elected to undergo a radically different route for his Achilles surgery and the subsequent recovery process. Rodgers' surgery was done by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who used an internal brace to expedite the rehabilitation process.

Aaron Rodgers' special surgery typically shortens the recovery timeframe. That, coupled with the four-time MVP's insatiable desire to return to the Gridiron, makes for an outside chance that he could make a late-season recovery to play for the New York Jets. The Green Bay Packers legend recently set a mid-December target to return to the Gridiron. If that happens, then Rodgers would do something that arguably no high-level sportsperson has done in the contact-heavy league that is the NFL.

What is the recovery timeframe for a regular Achilles surgery?

An Achilles injury is among the worst injuries that a high-level sportsperson can suffer during a game. This injury has a long recovery period, and extensive rehabilitation will need to take place if the affected sportsperson aims to get back to pre-injury form.

According to "My Health Alberta," a professional sportsperson may be able to return to regular sporting events in about four to six months. However, it might take more time for the affected individual to return to the level before the injury. Of course, there are post-injury risks involved, and that's why it is advised that players don't rush back from Achilles injuries.

Of course, the recovery timeframe ranges from athlete to athlete, as there are some significant factors involved. Such factors include but aren't limited to age, fitness, discipline, and form before the injury occurred. Furthermore, in recent times, some sophisticated treatments have helped high-level sportspersons return to play quicker. However, such individuals also have the same risk of re-injury as their contemporaries who go through the orthodox forms of Achilles surgery.