Jayson Tatum is officially on the mend.
The 27-year-old basketball star suffered an injury earlier this week during the Boston Celtics’ playoff loss to the New York Knicks. He quickly underwent surgery to repair a ruptured right Achilles tendon.
Tatum shared a photo of himself in a hospital bed yesterday, smiling and flashing a thumbs up in a hospital bed with an elevated wrapped right foot.
“Thankful for all the love and support,” he wrote in the caption.
According to the Hospital for Special Surgery, patients who have undergone Achilles tendon rupture surgery typically spend three to four weeks in a cast or boot without putting weight on the foot. From there, physical therapy helps rebuild strength and mobility.
Most can expect to return to full activity, including running or jumping, in about six to nine months.
“Celtics forward Jayson Tatum today underwent successful surgery to repair a ruptured right Achilles tendon. No timetable is currently available for his return, but he is expected to make a full recovery. Further updates will be provided when appropriate,” the team shared on their website on Tuesday.
According to CBS Sports, the injury happened late in the fourth quarter of Monday’s game. Tatum was chasing a loose ball when he stepped back on his right leg and fell to the floor.
“If anybody can handle it, it’s him. He sent a message to the staff and the players today, so he’s doing better,” said coach Joe Mazzulla in a pre-game press conference on Wednesday.
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