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Sport Techie
Cleveland Cavaliers reported that forward Kevin Love underwent a successful surgery Friday to alleviate persistent left foot pain. Surgery was performed by Dr. Martin O’Malley at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. The team will re-evaluate Love at six weeks to determine if he will be ready to return.
The surgery that was performed was not specified, but Love had been dealing with a left big toe injury since the preseason. It had initially seemed as though Love would take the conservative route, with use of a walking boot and rehab. Ultimately it seems they decided that the surgical route would be the more efficient path to return.
The big toe has an essential role in walking and running. As the foot makes heel contact and transitions towards the toes, the big toe controls pronation to guide bodyweight forward.
Pronation is often described as an injury risk factor. Any misalignment or injury to the big toe can cause mal-distribution of bodyweight, which in turn can cause other injuries such as ACL tears.
As for Love’s injury, the surgery was predominantly for just the foot pain. There’s no telling specifically what was performed. However, surgery and rehab will be beneficial for his short and long-term future.
The 1-7 Cavaliers definitely can’t wait until Love’s return to the court. He played in 4 games this season, averaging 19 points and 13.5 rebounds. Until then, they will have to lean heavily on Larry Nance Jr. and Tristan Thompson to play forward.