Medical experts' take on Foles', Ryans' injuries

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- We don't know the results of the MRIs yet for Nick Foles and DeMeco Ryans, but in the meantime, Action News spoke with a few sports medicine experts.

They are not treating the players, but offer their take on the injuries and how long they may take to heal.

Dr. Arthur Bartolozzi and physical therapist Justin Shaginaw with Aria 3B Orthopaedic Institute watched replays of Foles' and Ryans' injuries.

Eagles coach Chip Kelly said Monday Foles suffered a cracked collarbone.

Dr. Bartolozzi explains if the clavicle is completely broken and displaced, that means surgery and an average 8 to 9 weeks recovery.

But what if it's less severe?

"If it's a little crack, then a sling and it will heal in about 4 to 6 weeks," Dr. Bartolozzi said.

As for Ryans, he's said to have a right Achilles injury. The MRI will give more details.

But Dr. Bartolozzi says most Achilles tendon injuries are a complete tear.

"It's usually a snap," Dr. Bartolozzi said.

That requires surgery.

"Often it looks like a bunch of fibers, we sow all the fibers together carefully, and then close it up, and keep the foot in a position where it's relaxing the tendon," Dr. Bartolozzi said.

Justin knows firsthand what that's like. This past July he tore his left Achilles tendon.

In the past, he tore his right.

Ryans also has a history of tearing his other Achilles tendon.

Justin can imagine what went through the linebacker's mind.

"You know what happened, but you don't really want to admit it and you just know the long recovery and rehab that you're in for," Shaginaw said.

"It's unlikely he'll be back this year," Dr. Bartolozzi said.

If the Achilles tendon is completely torn, after surgery it takes 6 to 8 weeks before someone can put their full weight on that leg.

And it takes much longer before they'll be able to run or jump on it.

Again, MRIs were done Monday on both players.

There is no word yet on when the Eagles will release the results.