Earlier this month, we explored the signs and symptoms of Achilles tendon tears. Today, we’ll examine the treatment options for Achilles tendon tears, and we’ll look at the rehabilitation process.
Non-surgical treatment
For many Achilles tendon tears, patients can opt for either a surgical or non-invasive procedure. Both methods have been proven successful, although most doctors will recommend surgery. Patients who undergo surgery have reported:
- Less pain while walking one year after the injury;
- A greater ability to return to pre-injury levels in sports 1-2 years after surgery;
- A decreased likelihood of re-rupture.
That being said, non-invasive techniques have been shown to be widely successful and may actually be a better option for some types of tears. Non-surgical treatments also have a decreased likelihood of infection or nerve damage.
If you opt for non-invasive treatment, the first thing your doctor will do is immobilize your leg. This will prevent your leg from moving so your Achilles can reattach and heal. Some common ways your doctor may immobilize you foot includes:
- Casting
- Splinting
- Placing the foot in a foot brace
- Using a stabilized walking boot
A person will usually have their foot immobilized for 8-10 weeks before starting strengthening exercises.
Surgical Treatment
As noted above, most doctors recommend surgery to fix a ruptured Achilles tendon, especially in athletes and people who are constantly moving for their job.
During surgery, your doctor will make a small incision along the back of your ankle. The doctor will then identify the torn tendon ends and use sutures to reattach the tendon. The sutures are tied together to help the tendon in the natural healing process. Your doctor will then close the incision.
Recovering from Achilles tendon surgery
Below is a basic timetable for what a person can expect when recovering from Achilles tendon surgery.
First 3 days – Keep your foot elevated as much as possible. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking any prescription pills to deal with the pain.
0-2 weeks- Patients undergoing achilles tendon repair can weight bear in their cast immediately after surgery. The cast is flexed with the toes pointing downward to protect the repair.
2-8 weeks – The cast is removed and a cast boot is applied; heel lifts are added to the boot to protect the repair from excessive stress. Weight bearing is unrestricted, motion is encouraged out of the boot while remaining non-weight bearing.
8 weeks – 6 months – Physical therapy is prescribed and the boot is discontinued. Expect to continue to gradually build strength in your foot. Do not overexert yourself too quickly during the first 2 months of rehabilitation, or you may re-rupture your Achilles. Heed your doctor’s advice as to when you should begin more strenuous activity.
Related source: Cigna, WebMD