Achilles Tendon Repair
Initial Key – Protect the surgical repair, patient is NWB on crutches with a cast for the first 4 weeks.
At approximately 10 days post operative
Wound check and suture removal, splint is removed and cast is applied.
4 weeks post operative
Splint is removed and patient is placed in a cam walker with heel lifts to keep in 15 degrees of plantar flexion.
5 weeks post operative
Patient may begin AROM exercises of the ankle – no resistance.
7 weeks post operative
Patient may begin gentle stretch into dorsiflexion with a towel or strap.
8 weeks post operative
Begin full weight bearing and wean from crutches.
9 weeks post operative
Full weight bearing with a heel lift or heeled shoe, may initiate cycling on stationary bike, weight bearing stretches may be initiated.
12 weeks post operative
Patient can begin resistive exercises.
4 months post operative
Patient can progress to light jogging.
6 months post operative
Patient can initiate return to athletics.