Outlook

• 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.
  
  
• Typically as the rupture site heals, a small lump remains from the scarring.
  
  
• Weight bearing commonly begins at about 6 weeks with a heel support.
  
  
• Return to running or athletics is traditionally about 4-6 months. With motivation and rigorous physical therapy, elite athletes may return to athletics as early as 3 months after injury.