Non-Operative Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatments

There are two kinds of Achilles tendon ruptures. Both can benefit from non-operative treatments like rest, activity modification, physical therapy, and more.

Acute injury: A partial or complete tear caused by sudden, forceful movements such as jumping or running. See a specialist as soon as possible to diagnose the damage, which can be with a physical exam alone. More severe ruptures may require surgery.

Chronic, painful ruptures: Ruptures and micro-tears can cause ongoing pain during physical activity. Non-operative treatments are usually effective. However, surgery may be recommended for more severe cases.

 

Overview of procedure/treatment

• Rest
• Crutches
• A cast to immobilize the foot and ankle and allow faster healing
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy

 

Pre-treatment considerations

• See your specialist for a definitive diagnosis if you have severe sudden Achilles tendon pain or chronic pain over time
• Acute and severe Achilles tendon injuries may require surgery instead of non-operative treatments
• Chronic tendon pain from ruptures is usually treated with non-operative measures
• If pain does not improve, MRI images may be ordered to show whether injury and causes could be remedied through surgery
• NOTE: Corticosteroid injections are NOT recommended because they can cause additional ruptures

 

Post-treatment considerations and recovery

Follow recovery instructions as directed

 

Pros & Benefits

• In chronic tendon rupture cases, non-operative treatments can be effective in reducing pain and healing tears
• Can be done by patients in their own home

 

Cons, risks, and possible side effects

• May not heal all ruptures
• Surgery may be needed to repair and reinforce the tendon and remove bony areas that rub against the tendon

 

Why Rothman

• Each year, Rothman's foot and ankle specialists help thousands of patients with a wide variety of conditions, including how to treat Achilles tendon ruptures without surgery.
• As recognized leaders nationally and in the Greater Philadelphia area, our specialists use innovative treatments and the latest technology, as well as tried-and-true approaches.
• Our orthopedic specialists are board-certified, fellowship-trained and have many years of extensive experience. Some have been team physicians for area professional sports teams. 
• Rothman specialists regularly publish research in prestigious medical journals and lecture worldwide to share their vast knowledge with the next generation of orthopedic specialists.
• Our nationally recognized orthopedic team is consistently ranked among the best in the Delaware Valley by U.S. News & World Report.

 

Consult with a Rothman orthopedic specialist about treatments that may be right for you.