Least Effective Exercises Slideshow

Medical Author:

Christopher C Nannini, MD

Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Prognosis of Achilles Tendon Rupture

• The majority of people return to normal activity levels with either surgical or nonsurgical treatment.
• Most studies indicate a better outcome with surgery. Athletes can expect a faster return to activity with a lower incidence that the injury will happen again. Physiotherapy can expedite recovery time.
• Typically as the rupture site heals, a small lump remains from the scarring. Atrophy of the adjacent calf muscle is not uncommon.
• Weight bearing commonly begins at about six weeks with a heel support.
• Return to running or athletics is traditionally about four to six months. With motivation and rigorous physical therapy, elite athletes may return to athletics as early as three months after injury.