Is there life after an Achilles tendon rupture?
Yes,
In the past, a ruptured Achilles tendon could end the career of a professional athlete and significantly impact the quality of life for others with the injury—even after treatment.
Fortunately, that is no longer the case. If you suffer from this serious injury, you can most likely return to your normal life again.
However:
Long-term outcomes indicate that whether the injury is treated surgically or nonsurgically, significant residual loss of strength and function can persist for up to two years after the injury is repaired.
To avoid reinjury or complications and return to normal activity, it is imperative that you engage in a rehabilitation program and patiently accept a recovery period of at least six months.
Physical Therapy For A Ruptured Achilles Tendon
Rehabilitation of a ruptured Achilles tendon involves:
- Range of Motion (ROM): Rehabilitation starts with improving the flexibility and movement of the Achilles tendon and surrounding muscles. This involves exercises to restore normal movement and reduce stiffness.
- Functional Strength: Building strength in the lower leg is crucial for recovery. This includes exercises to strengthen the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon, which helps in regaining stability and functionality.
- Orthotic Support: Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to provide additional support and stability to the foot. They help in proper alignment and can prevent further injury during the recovery process.
Initial Physical Therapy
The first therapy session will usually include evaluation of ROM, massage of the incision site (in cases of surgical repair) and stretching instructions, since the repaired or healing tendon will be tighter than before and more vulnerable to tears if stressed too soon.
- Light stretching exercises will increase flexibility in the tendon.
- We may also recommend wearing a boot for support while cycling or performing other exercises to maintain overall strength.
- Pain relievers may also be prescribed by your physician as needed.
- In addition to exercises, home care may include an ice water bath of the injured area twice a day for 15 minutes.
Advanced Rehabilitation
- Over time, we will introduce weight-bearing exercises, such as toe raises on an elevated surface, to rebuild functional strength in the lower leg.
- Soft-tissue massage to the calf muscle, stationary biking without a boot, and therapeutic ultrasound and electrical stimulation can be prescribed if needed.
- Orthotic support can also help. Orthotics are custom-made inserts that fit into the patient’s shoe and help stabilize the foot, so it functions properly and avoids reinjury.
Resuming Normal Activities
Gradually, under careful supervision, you can resume normal activities.
Here’s what you can expect during the recovery period.
The Early Days
In the first few weeks after your injury, expect your recovery to be pretty laid-back.
- You’ll likely be wearing a cast or boot to keep your foot stable and limit movement.
- During this time, it’s all about letting the tendon heal and managing any swelling or pain.
- You might need to rely on crutches or a wheelchair for mobility to keep weight off your foot.
It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s advice on resting and elevating your foot to support the healing process.
Progressing Gradually
As you move past the initial few weeks, you’ll start to see gradual improvements.
- You might notice that your pain and swelling decrease, and you’ll begin to move around a bit more.
- This is when you’ll start to gently reintroduce normal activities, though you’ll still need to be cautious and avoid overdoing it.
Pay attention to how your body responds—some days will be better than others, and that’s perfectly normal. It’s a slow process, but each small step forward is a win.
Getting Back to Your Routine
Around the 6-month mark, you’ll be itching to get back to your regular activities.
- By now, your tendon should be healing well, and you should feel more comfortable moving around.
- You might still need to be careful with certain activities and continue using supportive devices like orthotic inserts.
It’s a time of gradually rebuilding your strength and confidence. While the road to full recovery can be long and sometimes frustrating, seeing your progress and regaining your normal routine will be incredibly rewarding.
Did you know you have Direct Access* to Physical Therapy? No referral, no problem!
Long-Term Outlook
Even after you’ve returned to most of your regular activities, it’s important to listen to your body and give it time to fully recover. You might experience occasional stiffness or discomfort as your tendon continues to strengthen.
Stay patient with your recovery.
Keep up with any recommended follow-up appointments and, with time and care, you’ll get back to your usual self, often without any long-term issues.
Although the lengthy recovery period following Achilles rupture is often frustrating—particularly for young, active patients—an individualized exercise program can enable a return to your normal life, pain free and without restrictions, once again.
Check out our list of 18 locations throughout Northern Virginia to get started today.
