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A time- and criterion-based guide for clinicians to follow post-operatively for Achilles tendon repair. Includes interventions, criteria, and references for each phase of rehabilitation, from immediate post-op to return to sport.
Exercise is a key component of the rehabilitation programme to aid the return to function and activity. In order to achieve the best recovery possible it is important, that after a period of rest, focus on tendon loading is considered.
A comprehensive guide for rehabilitation after Achilles tendon repair surgery, based on evidence-based practice and expert recommendations. Includes risk factors, precautions, outcome tools, criteria, and exercises for each phase of recovery.
Acute Achilles tendon ruptures can be treated both with and without surgery, each with its own risks and benefits. Historically the tradeoffs were between a much higher rate of re-rupture of the tendon with nonoperative management (approximately 1 in 7 patients) versus the risk of wound complication with surgery. More recent
General Guidelines/Precautions: Initial diagnosis and initiation of non-operative treatment must be started within 48 hours of injury and foot immobilized into plantarflexion with the patient non-weight-bearing. Patient must be willing to comply with the functional rehab protocol and strict guidelines.
These guidelines are designed to guide physiotherapists when treating patients following conservative management of achilles rupture using the accelerated 8-week rebound boot protocol. These guidelines were developed by a process of systematic review of the current evidence based literature and medical and peer consultation.
Rehabilitation Goals • Continue to protect repair • Avoid over-elongation of the Achilles • Decrease pain • Minimize swelling • Improve scar mobility once incision is healed • Restore ankle range of motion, limited on dorsiflexion • Begin to normalize gait as much as possible and as tolerated Garrett C. Davis MD Kevin Walters PA-C
