Achilles Tendon Repair

Mammoth Orthopedic Institute / Sierra Park PT · Stephen Knecht MD (US Ski Team Physician)

Weight-Bearing

NWB x4 weeks in splint/cast; WBAT 4-6 weeks in CAM boot with heel lift; FWB weaning from CAM boot to supportive shoe wks 6-8

Key Restrictions

No over-stressing repair (forceful PF while in DF position); no impact activities until Phase V (3-6 months)

Timeline & Phases

5 phases: Phase I (0-4 wks, NWB splint/cast), Phase II (4-6 wks, WBAT CAM boot with heel lift), Phase III (6-8 wks, FWB wean from CAM boot), Phase IV (8-12 wks, no impact), Phase V (3-6 months, plyometrics and return to sport)

Notes

Edited by Stephen Knecht MD 9/23/19; Tim Tollefson PT initial edit 2/3/17; references University of Wisconsin Sports Medicine; return to sport criteria: dynamic neuromuscular control with multi-plane activities without pain or swelling

Surgeon / Author

Stephen Knecht MD (US Ski Team Physician)

Published

2019