An Achilles tear is one of the most painful and debilitating injuries you can experience, especially if you’re active. And Achilles tendon injuries aren’t just limited to high-performance athletes.
They can occur to anyone, typically during sudden movements or strenuous activity. Read more: https://www.coveorthopaedics.com.sg/conditions-we-treat/foot-ankle/achilles-tears/.
Recovering from an Achilles tear usually involves a combination of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and patience. In today’s piece, we will explain what causes an Achilles tear.
We will also discuss how long the recovery process typically takes and what steps you can take to heal effectively. Keep reading!
What is an Achilles Tear, and How Do You Get It?
The Achilles tendon is a thick, fibrous band that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It facilitates walking, running, jumping, and almost every movement that involves the legs.
An Achilles tear occurs when this tendon is overstretched or experiences sudden trauma, causing it to partially or completely rupture. Achilles tears often occur during activities that involve sudden changes in movement, such as sports like basketball, football, or tennis.
These activities put immense strain on the tendon, especially during movements like jumping, sprinting, or pushing off the foot. However, it’s not just athletes who are at risk.
Everyday activities, like climbing stairs or even walking on uneven surfaces, can lead to an Achilles tear. This is particularly true for cases where the tendon has been weakened by age or overuse.
Certain conditions, such as diabetes or obesity, can also weaken the tendon and increase the risk of rupture. If you experience a sudden, sharp pain in the back of your leg and hear a “pop,” you may have torn your Achilles tendon.
Can an Achilles Tear Heal on Its Own?
If you suspect that you may have torn your Achilles, a major question that may almost instantly come to mind is: can an Achilles tear heal on its own? Below is a good answer;
Whether an Achilles tear can heal on its own largely depends on the severity of the injury. Partial tears may heal with non-surgical treatments like rest, bracing, and physical therapy. In these cases, immobilizing the foot and allowing the tendon to heal naturally might be sufficient, although this approach usually takes longer and requires close monitoring by a qualified practitioner.
However, complete tears of the Achilles tendon typically need surgery to repair the tendon. Without surgery, a completely ruptured Achilles may not heal correctly.
An Achilles tear that hasn’t healed properly may lead to long-term mobility issues and a higher risk of re-rupture. If, for any reason, you cannot undergo surgery or are not physically active, non-surgical treatments like a walking boot or cast may be recommended. While this approach can work, it’s associated with a higher risk of complications, such as re-injury or incomplete healing.
So, Can You Fully Recover from a Torn Achilles?
Yes, with the right treatment, many people are able to fully recover from a torn Achilles tendon, whether the tear is treated surgically or non-surgically. However, recovery from Achilles tears in Singapore tends to vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s age, overall health, and commitment to rehabilitation.
Surgical treatment typically results in faster recovery times and a lower risk of re-injury. It’s often recommended for younger, more active individuals who need to regain full functionality as quickly as possible.
Non-surgical treatment can be effective for less active individuals or those for whom surgery poses a higher risk. However, non-surgical recovery often takes longer and carries a higher chance of re-rupture.
Regardless of the treatment option, rehabilitation is crucial to achieving a full recovery. Physical therapy is often prescribed to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility in the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon. This therapy involves exercises that gradually increase in intensity as the tendon heals.
Most people with a torn Achilles can expect to return to normal activities, though high-impact sports or strenuous physical activities might take longer to reintroduce. In some cases, people may experience lingering stiffness or weakness in the affected leg, which makes ongoing rehabilitation essential for long-term recovery success.
How Long Is Recovery From An Achilles Tear?
The recovery timeline for an Achilles tear depends on several factors, including the severity of the tear, whether surgery was required, and how well the individual adheres to their rehabilitation plan. On average, recovery can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months for most people, though full recovery may take up to a year in more severe cases.
Here is a quick summary of the stages of recovery:
- Initial recovery (0-6 weeks): During this period, the injured leg is typically immobilized in a cast, splint, or walking boot to allow the tendon to heal. Weight-bearing is usually limited, and crutches or other walking aids are often used. If surgery is performed, this is the stage where the surgical incision heals, and the tendon begins the early stages of recovery.
- Mid-recovery (6-12 weeks): By this point, some weight-bearing activities are gradually introduced under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Physical therapy often begins around this time, focusing on gentle stretching and mobility exercises to prevent stiffness and help the tendon regain flexibility.
- Late recovery (3-6 months): As the tendon heals, physical therapy progresses to more dynamic exercises like balance training, strength-building exercises, and controlled movements. This stage is crucial for restoring the strength and function of the calf muscles and Achilles tendon.
- Return to full activity (6-12 months): While most people can return to normal daily activities within 4 to 6 months, those who engage in high-impact sports or intense physical activities may need up to a year of recovery. Physical therapy continues to play a key role in this stage to ensure the tendon is strong and flexible enough to handle stress.
To speed up your recovery after an Achilles tear, regularly attend therapy sessions and follow through with home exercises. These exercises will strengthen your calf muscles and improve the flexibility of your Achilles tendon.
You will also need to eat foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to help your body heal faster. Focus on foods that promote tissue repair, such as lean meats, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Importantly, avoid rushing the recovery process by overexerting yourself too soon. Follow your doctor’s instructions for weight-bearing and activity restrictions carefully.
The Bottom Line
Recovery from Achilles tears in Singapore is a long process that requires patience. However, with the right approach, most people make a full recovery.
Whether treated surgically or non-surgically, the key to recovery lies in following a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. You will also need to religiously follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Don’t let an Achilles tear keep you down or end your career. If you suspect that you may have torn your Achilles, book an appointment today for a thorough assessment and treatment planning. Details below;
Cove Orthopedic Clinic – Mount Elizabeth Orchard: Orthopedic Surgeon
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-13 Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
https://www.coveorthopaedics.com.sg/
+65 9631 7637
