Navigating Achilles Tendon Ruptures

Achilles tendon ruptures can be painful and debilitating injuries.  Tears of the tendon that allows the foot and ankle to forcefully push off can occur as a result of trauma or sporting injuries from sudden deceleration and changes in direction.  This injury can happen to anyone and elite athletes such as Kobe Bryant or Ryan Howard are not immune to them.

Treatment of acute Achilles tendon injuries involves immobilization with a splint or cast and possibly surgical repair of the torn tendons.  There is a controversy over whether surgical repair is necessary to restore function.  Studies have shown functional outcomes are similar whether the tendon tear is surgically repaired or immobilized with a cast.   You should consult your surgeon about the pros and cons of each treatment option.

Following surgery or cast treatment, a stretching and strengthening program is prescribed to improve ankle flexibility and stability.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendon-rupture/basics/definition/con-20020370