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Recovery Time for a Ruptured Achilles Tendon

When the Achilles tendon ruptures, walking normally is virtually impossible. The Achilles tendon is the fibrous cord that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Recovery time varies depending on the type of treatment.

  1. Symptoms of a Ruptured Achilles Tendon

    • Ruptures of the Achilles tendon usually occur while playing sports or running. Symptoms of a ruptured Achilles tendon include pain and swelling above the heel bone, not being able to push your foot forward, difficulty walking, and not being able to stand on your toes.

    Treatment

    • If a ruptured Achilles tendon is suspected, you should seek prompt medical attention. Your doctor will feel for a gap in your tendon and they may order an MRI to see if it is a full or partial rupture.

    Surgery Recovery Time

    • Usually surgery is recommended and the recovery time is six to eight weeks before being able to walk without a boot, cast or brace.

    Nonsurgical Recovery Time

    • Without surgery, the initial healing time varies on the person and on the completeness of the rupture, but it can take up to six months.

    Complete Recovery

    • With both surgical and nonsurgical treatment, after the initial healing period, it can take four to six months of physical therapy for complete recovery.

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