By Freddy Espin
Understanding the best practices in Physiotherapy for Achilles Tendon Rupture can make a difference in the quality and speed of recovery, given that Achilles tendon rupture is a common and challenging injury, especially among high-performance athletes, such as Latin footballers in the United Kingdom.
Post-Surgery Care and Physiotherapy for Achilles Tendon Rupture
After surgical intervention, the physiotherapy process is vital for proper recovery. Initially, it is crucial to manage pain and inflammation with techniques like cryotherapy and gentle manual therapy. Subsequently, rehabilitation should focus on gradually regaining mobility and strength of the tendon.
Here are the 6 recovery phases that an average person should follow for their recovery after Achilles tendon rupture surgery.
1. 0-2 Weeks – Rest (Phase 1):
The focus is on rest and recovery. The leg is immobilized in a plaster cast or rigid boot, and non-weight-bearing mobility is safely done using crutches.
2. 2-4 Weeks – Easy Walking (Phase 2):
Weight-bearing is initiated based on the allowed pain level, using crutches. Gentle ankle plantar flexion exercises are started under supervision.
3. 4-8 Weeks – Walking (Phase 3):
The goal is to progress towards full weight-bearing, maintaining crutch use for balance if needed. Active ankle movements are performed, and work begins to have the foot flat in the boot around 6-8 weeks.
4. 8-12 Weeks – Easy Activity (Phase 4):
Normal walking is aimed for and gradual boot removal begins by the end of 12 weeks. Strength in the ankle and lower limb is increased.
5. 12-24 Weeks – Activity (Phase 5):
Focus is on proprioceptive control using regular footwear and increasing dorsiflexion range. More intense and sport-specific exercises are introduced.
6. Over 24 Weeks – Complete (Phase 6):
Normal activity and sports are resumed with explosive actions, using regular footwear.
Physiotherapy for Achilles Tendon Rupture
The treatment should be specifically tailored to the needs of athletes, considering their activity level and the specific demands of their sport. Rehabilitation exercises start with low-impact activities and gradually intensify towards exercises that restore full functional capacity for sports performance.
At Fisio Sport, we base our high-performance athlete recovery treatments on the following aspects:
1. Personalization of Treatment:
Treatment should be specifically designed to adapt to the individual needs of each athlete, considering factors like the sport they play, their position in the team, and their activity level
2. Starting with Low Impact:
Rehabilitation begins with low-impact exercises to minimize stress on the Achilles tendon as it begins to heal.
3. Gradual Progression:
Exercises are intensified gradually. The load and intensity of exercises increase as the tendon strengthens, and the athlete regains more mobility and endurance.
4. Restoration of Functionality:
The main goal is to restore the athlete’s full functional capacity, allowing them to reach the performance level they had before the injury.
5. Sport-Specific Exercises:
Sport-specific exercises are incorporated to meet the demands of the athlete’s sport, ensuring that the rehabilitation is relevant and effective for their sporting activity.
6. Professional Supervision:
Athletes should be supervised by sports physiotherapy professionals to ensure exercises are performed correctly and to adjust the rehabilitation program as needed.
7. Prevention of Re-injuries:
In addition to treating the current injury, the treatment also focuses on techniques and exercises that can help prevent future Achilles tendon injuries.
8. Integration of Technology and Advanced Techniques:
Technologies like ultrasound therapy, electrotherapy, or laser therapy can be used to improve results and accelerate the recovery process.
Analysis for Soccer Players
Soccer players, in particular, require specialized attention due to the dynamic nature of soccer, which involves explosive movements and rapid changes of direction. Rehabilitation should focus not only on tendon recovery but also on techniques that enhance agility and the ability to perform specific soccer movements without the risk of re-injury, all under the aspects mentioned in the previous point.
Advanced Rehabilitation Techniques
Advanced rehabilitation techniques may include:
1. Advanced manual therapy:
To improve circulation and facilitate tissue healing.
2. Plyometric exercises:
Essential for developing the necessary power in game situations
3. Soccer movement simulations:
To prepare the athlete to return to the field with confidence.
4. Comprehensive counseling:
Covering everything from nutrition to stress management to support holistic recovery.
In places like Fisio Sport, where sports physiotherapy is deeply understood, evidence-based approaches are adopted and personalized according to the individual needs of each athlete, which is why it is essential to recognize the importance of seeking advice and treatment from professionals with experience in sports injuries.
The recovery of the Achilles tendon is a journey that requires patience, dedication, and proper support. Athletes must work collaboratively with their physiotherapists to ensure not only complete recovery but also the prevention of future injuries.