What is the expected torn Achilles recovery time?

The Achilles tendon is the longest and largest tendon in your body. It connects the back of your heel to your calf muscles, allowing you to flex your feet and toes. The Achilles tendon is vulnerable to a variety of injuries, especially in athletes. Often, these injuries, such as a mild strain, are minor and can recover with a little time and rest. However, when you have a catastrophic injury like a torn or ruptured Achilles, you will require much more time and treatment.

Treatment for a torn Achilles tendon

Treatment for a ruptured Achilles tendon varies depending on factors like the severity of the injury and your age, weight or medical history. People who are younger and/or athletic or who need to use their feet and ankles for demanding activities often need surgery to repair the ruptured tendon.

People who are older or do not use their feet and ankles for physically demanding activities may benefit from nonsurgical treatments alone.

In either case, you should visit a physical therapist for help. A physical therapist can help you prepare your ankle for surgery and recover afterward. This helps reduce pain while recovering and improve the speed and quality of your recovery. 

If you elect to not have surgery, a physical therapist can work with you to help rehabilitate the ankle while the tendon heals. They can help manage the pain and improve your range of motion so you can live a normal daily life with your injury, although you might not be able to run or jump as much as someone who has surgery to repair the tendon as well as physical therapy.

Torn Achilles recovery time

Recovery from a torn Achilles varies from person to person. The severity of the tear factors into recovery time, as well as what kind of treatment you choose. Surgery can take more time for recovery because you need to recover from the incisions of the surgery as well as the tendon damage itself.

Recovery can begin once you are able to start moving your heel again, which can take as much time as two to six weeks. Once you can start moving your heel and begin the recovery process, it can take up to four to six months to return to normal activity. 

Visit Whatcom Physical Therapy for torn Achilles treatment

Do you have a torn Achilles and need help from a physical therapist to improve your recovery? Our team at Whatcom Physical Therapy can help you recover with or without surgery. Contact our team today about a torn Achilles or to schedule an initial appointment.