Sports after an Achilles tendon rupture | Achilles tendon rupture – the right follow-up treatment

Sports after an Achilles tendon rupture

Sport is not even possible after an Achilles tendon rupture. Those affected must completely immobilize the foot for 6-8 weeks before they can resume light training. As described above, this initially consists of passive and simple strengthening exercises.

Endurance sports such as cycling or swimming can be started again after 12 weeks at the earliest. Before contact sports such as basketball, soccer or volleyball and sports that require abrupt changes of direction such as tennis can be resumed, 5-6 months may pass. Those affected should make sure that the Achilles tendon and the muscles surrounding it are sufficiently restored and strengthened so that there is no direct risk of renewed injury or tearing. It is therefore very important, especially for competitive but also for amateur athletes, to continue consistent training and stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon.

How long does the healing process take?

The total duration of the healing phase depends on the individual patient. Depending on age, state of fitness and health history, the progress of healing can be faster or slower. If the patient is not an athlete, it is possible to return to normal working life relatively quickly, as the special splint makes it possible to move around. At the latest after the splint is taken off after 6-8 weeks and wedge heels are used, the affected person can move more in everyday life. However, as described above, sport is only fully possible again after 3 to 12 months.

Summary

All in all, an Achilles tendon rupture is an injury that can now be treated medically very well. Those affected have good prospects of complete rehabilitation. Nevertheless, due to the complex interaction of the tendon and its task, it is a long and complex rehabilitation process.