Anterior Tibialis Repair

Orthopaedic Associates of Maine

Weight-Bearing

NWB wks 3-4; PWBAT at 6 wks per MD; FWB progression thereafter

Key Restrictions

Removable splint keeps foot in dorsiflexion at all times; foot must NOT drop into plantarflexion when splint removed; no WB wks 3-4; foot movement limited to neutral or less unless specified; no resistive exercises until 8-10 wks; running and plyometrics only at 16-20 wks and only when cleared by MD

Timeline & Phases

Wks 3-4 (passive DF, place and hold, active PF 10-15°), Wk 4 (active DF begins, active PF 20-25°), Wk 5 (full AROM all directions), Wk 6 (PWBAT per MD, A/PROM all), Wk 8 (full AROM, resistive DF starts, CKC), Wks 12-16 (sport/recreation loading), Wks 16-20 (running/plyometrics per MD)

Notes

Protocol based on hand tendon repair early active motion principles; therapy begins 3 wks postop; tibialis anterior isolation at 8 wks; confirm with MD if repair is near aponeurosis or if tendon was shortened