Achilles tendon rupture Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2008.
Answers to questions about achilles tendon rapture
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email. This section will expand over time.
- Will it get better on its own, without treatment?
- Will I be able to walk once it is treated?
- How long will it take for me to be back to normal?
Will it get better on its own, without treatment?
No, you will need medical treatment.
Explanation
If your Achilles ruptures and you delay seeking advice and treatment your treatment options become limited. If you need to have surgery, it should be done as soon as possible to avoid the two ends of the Achilles tendon from separating and shortening.
Further information
- British Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
www.bofas.org.uk - Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
www.csp.org.uk
Sources
- Rupture of the Achilles tendon (complete). GP Notebook.www.gpnotebook.co.uk, accessed 22 October
Will I be able to walk once it is treated?
Yes, you will be able to walk once the cast or brace is fixed.
Explanation
You may need to wear a shoe with a one inch heel or a shoe insert for a number of weeks. This helps to place the tendon in the best position to heal. Your physiotherapist will advise you. This is gradually reduced as your Achilles tendon rupture gets better.
Further information
- British Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
www.bofas.org.uk - Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
www.csp.org.uk
Sources
- Rupture of the Achilles tendon (complete). GP Notebook.www.gpnotebook.co.uk, accessed 22 October
How long will it take for me to be back to normal?
It usually takes six to 12 months to recover from an Achilles tendon rupture but this can vary between people.
Explanation
People heal at different rates and the tendon can rupture partially or completely and in different places.
Of all the people treated for Achilles tendon rupture, about seven in 10 people find they will be back to normal function and around two in 10 may need further treatment. After it has healed, the calf on the ruptured side will always be slightly shorter than the unaffected side.
Further information
- British Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society
www.bofas.org.uk - Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
www.csp.org.uk
Sources
- Mazzone MF, McCue T. Common Conditions of the Achilles Tendon. Am Fam Physician. 2002, 65(9):1805-1810
- Ruptured Achilles tendons. Bandolier. www.jr2.ox.ac.uk/bandolier, accessed 19 October 2007
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: November 2008
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