Have you recently found yourself sidelined by an Achilles tendon rupture at work? Are you eager to get back on your feet but unsure of the best path to recovery?
An Achilles tendon rupture is not just a painful injury; it can also drastically impact your ability to perform daily tasks and routines, particularly if it occurs on the job. As one of the most commonly injured tendons, its rehabilitation requires a specialised approach to ensure optimal recovery and prevent future issues. With workplace injuries often complicating recovery processes, individuals may feel overwhelmed by the information available.
Navigating the road to recovery after an Achilles tendon rupture requires a tailored physiotherapy rehabilitation program that not only aids in healing but also restores strength, flexibility, and function. Understanding the appropriate steps to take during this journey is crucial.
What is an Achilles tendon rupture?
The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the human body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone and playing a vital role in movements like walking, running, and jumping.
Despite its strength, this tendon is vulnerable to injury, particularly during high-impact activities. An Achilles tendon rupture occurs when the tendon is overstretched, leading to a complete or partial tear.
Symptoms typically include a sudden sensation of being hit in the ankle, difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg, swelling, and bruising around the ankle, making it challenging to perform basic movements.
Key components of physiotherapy for an Achilles tendon rupture
Your physiotherapist will tailor a rehabilitation program to your specific needs and progress. Common components of Achilles tendon rupture physiotherapy include:
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension.
- Therapeutic exercises: A variety of exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore function.
- Patient education: Guidance on activity modification, pain management, and injury prevention.
Physiotherapy rehabilitation for an Achilles tendon rupture
Achilles tendon rupture rehabilitation goals typically involve a structured program of exercises and therapies to help the tendon heal and regain strength and function. Here’s a general outline of what you might expect in a physiotherapy rehabilitation program for an Achilles tendon rupture:
Phase 1: Immobilisation and early healing process (0-6 weeks)
- Goals: Protect the healing tendon, reduce pain and swelling, and prevent muscle atrophy.
- Treatment:
- Immobilisation in a cast or brace with the foot in plantarflexion (toes pointed downwards).
- Crutches for non-weight bearing or partial weight-bearing as directed by your doctor.
- Gentle ankle movements within the brace to prevent stiffness.
- Exercises for the unaffected leg and upper body to maintain strength.
Phase 2: Early weight-bearing and range of motion (6-12 weeks)
- Goals: Gradually increase weight-bearing, restore ankle range of motion, and begin light strengthening exercises.
- Treatment:
- Gradual progression to full weight-bearing as tolerated.
- Removal of the cast or brace and initiation of active ankle movements.
- Exercises to improve ankle plantarflexion, normal dorsiflexion range, inversion, and eversion.
- Stretching of the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.
Phase 3: Strengthening and functional exercises (12-24 weeks)
- Goals: Improve muscle strength and endurance, enhance proprioception (balance), and progress to normal activities.
- Treatment:
- Progressive strengthening exercises for the calf muscles, including heel raises and resistance band exercises.
- Balance exercises to improve ankle stability.
- Gradual introduction of functional activities such as walking, jogging, and jumping.
Phase 4: Return to activity (24+ weeks)
- Goals: Return to pre-injury level of activity, including sports and exercise.
- Treatment:
- Sport-specific exercises and drills to prepare for return to athletic activities.
- Plyometric exercises to improve power and agility.
- Continued focus on strength, flexibility, and proprioception.
How long does physio take after Achilles tendon rupture?
Physiotherapy after an Achilles tendon rupture typically lasts for several months, with most people needing around 4 to 6 months of rehabilitation to return to normal activities.
The duration of physiotherapy after an Achilles tendon rupture can vary depending on the severity of the injury, healing process, type of treatment (surgical or non-surgical repair), and individual factors such as age, fitness level, and overall health.
Returning to high-impact sports may take even longer, sometimes up to a year.
Final thoughts
Navigating the road to recovery from an Achilles tendon rupture can be challenging, but with the right physiotherapy rehabilitation plan, it’s achievable.
Sticking to your physiotherapy program is vital for recovery and mobility. Each phase gradually loads the tendon while ensuring healing, so patience is key to avoid setbacks.
Focus on gradual improvement and celebrate small milestones, like regaining range of motion. With dedication, you can return to pre-injury activities and come out stronger for new challenges.
