Henrichs on the way back: comeback after Achilles tendon rupture in sight!

Henrichs on the way back: comeback after Achilles tendon rupture in sight!

Benjamin Henrichs, the 28-year-old professional footballer from RB Leipzig, is counting down the days since his serious injury when he tore his Achilles tendon shortly before Christmas 2022. This unfortunate situation occurred during a game against Bayern, in which Leipzig lost 5-1. Although the first operation was successful, a second operation was necessary to properly treat the injury. Since then, Henrichs has had a long road to recovery.

The DFB star is currently surprising with his progress. He is currently recovering in the Turks & Caicos Islands and is using the time to improve his fitness while preparing for the challenges ahead in the gym. Sports boss Marcel Schäfer is optimistic and thinks that Henrichs could be fit again in time for the start of training. However, if the return is delayed, this will not be a problem according to Schäfer, as there will be enough time until the start of the Bundesliga to fight your way back in peace. Henrichs still has a contract until 2028 and now has a new advisor who looks after him at the “Sports360” agency.

Important role for next season

Henrichs is classified internally as an important support for the coming season. His leadership skills and ability to speak multiple languages ​​make him a valuable member of the squad, especially for integrating new players. His teammates and the coaching team appreciate his mentality and joy in the game.

What about medical care? The recovery process after an Achilles tendon rupture is extremely important. According to the latest information from the field of sports rehabilitation, early mobilization is at the heart of the rehabilitation process. This includes specific exercises to improve mobility and prevent muscle atrophy and applies to both operated and non-operated patients. State-of-the-art protocols now enable faster recovery with less loss of calf and leg strength.

The rehabilitation process

Rehabilitation is typically divided into several phases:

• Ruhigstellungsphase (Woche 0 bis 2): Hier wird das Sprunggelenk gestützt und der Fuß bleibt unbetont.
• Begrenzte Gewichtsbelastung, frühe Bewegung (Woche 2 bis 4): Nach der Ruhigstellungsphase werden gezielte Bewegungsübungen begonnen, während die Gewichtsbelastung in schrittweisen Erhöhungen erlaubt ist.
• Schrittweise Erhöhung der Gewichtsbelastung (Woche 4 bis 6): Hier wird die Gewichtsbelastung auf bis zu 100 % gesteigert.
• Vollständig geschützte Gewichtsbelastung (Woche 6 bis 8): In dieser Phase erfolgt eine Übergangsphase zu praktisch normaler Bewegung.
• Allmählicher Übergang zu Schuhen (Woche 6 bis 8): Der Einsatz von Orthesen wird schrittweise verringert.

These modern rehabilitation methods have the advantage that they minimize the risks compared to traditional methods. Benjamin Henrichs is preparing to not only return to the Bundesliga stronger than before, but also to take on the role of a pioneer for his team. “My recovery path is going up steeply,” he says optimistically about his upcoming challenges.

RB Leipzig fans can look forward to his comeback, which is coming soon. If Henrichs makes a successful return, he could play a crucial role in leading the team to new heights.