Achilles Tendon Ruptures: From Treatment to the Playing Field

Abstract

Abstract: Achilles tendon ruptures are significant injuries that require intensive treatment and rehabilitation to return to full function. This statement is especially true for high-level athletes that seek to return to the highest levels of physical function. Outcomes after Achilles tendon ruptures have historically been good, although perhaps more guarded in those that require high levels of physical function. Essentially, the primary issue from a rehabilitation standpoint relates to strength and its relationship with the appropriate tension on the Achilles tendon. For reasons that remain somewhat elusive, patients with Achilles ruptures get profoundly weak after injury and well into recovery. Indeed, recovery is often protracted due to the length of time required to achieve full strength. In this review, we will focus on optimal rehabilitation of these injuries, how we can perhaps best prevent these injuries, and finally look at outcomes with a special focus on high-level athletes. Level of Evidence: Level V—Review.