Achilles Tendon Rupture (Partial/ Total)

• Achilles Tendon Rupture (Partial/ Total)

  • Secondary to tendinosis/tendinopathy (healthy tendons dont tear, only occurs after tendinosis/tendinopathy)
  • Conservative v. surgical management – similar outcome in long term
• Signs and symptoms:

  • Feeling of being kicked in back of calf
  • Sudden pain
  • Popping sensation at time of injury
  • Unable to perform single leg heel raise
  • +ve Thompson’s test
  • Discontinuous tendon on palpation
  • Complete tear more common than partial tear
• Treatment:

  • As per consultant protocol
  • Removable boot with wedges (ankle in plantarflexion) (approximately 6 - 8 weeks)
  • Maintain/improve muscle power
  • Improve ankle ROM (don’t force dorsiflexion in early phases)
  • Regain balance
  • Progress to functional activities
  • Sports specific (6 - 9 months)