Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment

The objective of treatment is to restore normal length and tension to the tendon and allow you to do what you could do before the injury. Treatment reflects a balance between protection and early motion.

• Protection is necessary to allow time for healing and to prevent reinjury.



• Moving your foot and ankle is needed to prevent stiffness and loss of muscle tone.



• Treatment options are surgical or nonsurgical. The choice is controversial.
  
  
  • Both surgical and nonsurgical treatment will require an initial period of about 6 weeks of casting or special braces. The cast may be changed at 2- to 4-week intervals to slowly stretch the tendon back to its normal length. Casting may be combined with early movement (1-3 weeks) to improve overall strength and flexibility.
  
  
  
  • A heel lift device and regular physical therapy follow for the remainder of treatment.
  
  
  
  • Consultation with an orthopedic surgeon will determine the treatment and follow-up that is right for you.