Achilles Tendon Surgery & Recovery: FAQ
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. A tendon rupture usually occurs from overuse injuries and causes pain and swelling in the back of the ankle. This often happens during sports activities such as running, tennis, basketball, soccer, volleyball, etc.
EmergeOrtho—Blue Ridge Region provides expert orthopedic specialists to treat foot and ankle conditions. Our fellowship-trained surgeons are skilled in several foot and ankle procedures, including Achilles tears.
Typically, a torn Achilles tendon requires surgery, but surgery can be daunting. Here are some common questions and answers about Achilles tendon surgery:
Common Questions About Achilles Tendon Surgery
What are Achilles Tear Symptoms?
The most common symptoms of a torn Achilles tendon include:
Severe pain in the heel
Tenderness and swelling around the heel bone
Discomfort while walking
Prolonged pain from periods of standing or walking
Inability to stand on the toes of the injured foot
Loss of strength
Popping or snapping during the injury
If you experience any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your physician for a physical examination.
Is Achilles Tendinitis the Same as an Achilles Tear?
Achilles tendinitis is not the same as an Achilles tear. A torn Achilles tendon involves a complete tendon rupture. Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendon without tearing. Achilles tendinitis usually causes pain in the back of the leg and/or above the heel. However, if left untreated, Achilles tendinitis could tear.
What is the Achilles Tendinitis Recovery Time?
Most people recover from Achilles tendinitis within 6 weeks. Your doctor may recommend nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy, rest, ice, over-the-counter medicine, stretching exercises, and other treatments to help build muscle strength and speed up recovery. If there is no improvement after 6 weeks, you may need more treatment, including surgery.
What Should I Expect from Surgery?
You may feel nervous before having Achilles surgery. You may also worry about how much time off work you will miss. Do not let these concerns keep you from getting the best possible care. Your surgeon will explain your options, answer your questions, and inform you about what to expect.
What Happens During Achilles Tendon Surgery?
During surgery, your surgeon makes an incision along the bottom of the heel to remove damaged tissue and reattach the ends of the torn tendon using sutures. You should avoid strenuous activity until your doctor gives you clearance. After the procedure, you will wear a compression bandage for 2 weeks. It helps reduce swelling and promote healing.
Can I Exercise After Achilles Surgery?
You will begin with physical therapy exercises to rebuild strength in your injured heel. You can gradually increase your activity level, including running, jumping, and doing strength-training exercises. Be sure to follow your doctor’s and physical therapist's instructions regarding when it is safe to exercise.
How Long is the Achilles Tear Recovery Time?
Most patients resume daily activities within 2 months with the help of physical therapy. Full recovery takes 3 to 6 months. That being said, you should return to daily activities in a slow progression. Returning too quickly to activities can cause reinjury.
Can I Play Sports Again After Achilles Tendon Surgery?
Most athletes can play sports again after Achilles tendon surgery in an average of 6 months. However, some athletes may experience a slight limp while walking or a loss of ankle flexibility.
Does It Hurt to Walk After an Achilles Repair?
After surgery, most patients report no pain, despite some tenderness at the incision site. Soreness typically goes away within 1 week. Continue to follow the instructions of your surgeon to eliminate the possibility of reinjuring your Achilles tendon.
Will I Be Able to Run Again After Achilles Tendon Repair?
Many runners choose to wait until they heal completely before resuming running. However, as advised by your doctor, you can start running slowly, typically by jogging for 10 minutes each day and gradually building up your distance.
Are There Any Potential Complications from Achilles Surgery?
There are always potential complications from any surgery. However, there are fewer risks associated with Achilles tendon surgery than with most surgeries. Common risks of surgery include:
Bleeding
Nerve damage
Wound infection
Blood clots
Healing problems
Calf weakness
Continued pain in your foot and ankle
Is Surgery the Only Option for Repairing a Torn Achilles Tendon?
Surgery is often recommended when a patient has a large gap between the two ends of the ruptured tendon. However, depending on the tear, an Achilles injury can be healed by nonsurgical treatments like casting or a removable boot.
How Do I Choose a Surgeon?
Achilles tendon tears often need surgery to relieve pain and restore normal functioning. The EmergeOrtho—Blue Ridge Region orthopedic surgeons will provide the best treatment for your Achilles surgery. Schedule your appointment to receive expert care so you can emerge stronger, healthier, and better.
