Late Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Rehab | Late Rehab Phase Exercises

The Achilles tendon is the biggest and strongest tendon in the human body and is formed by the tendons of the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles which both insert at the calcaneus. We mostly see ruptures of the Achilles tendon in high-impact sports predominantly in the male athlete.

While a scientific review from the year 2017 showed no significant differences in the outcomes of surgical and conservative management the re-rupture rate of conservatively managed tendons was higher and conservative management might not be suitable for every injury depending on its severity. However, there is a clear benefit of an accelerated rehab program including early mobilization versus immobilization as has been researched by Brumann et al. (2014).

We already discussed the 1st and 2nd stages of accelerated post-surgical rehab in two other posts. The 3rd stage – Late Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Rehab – which can last up to 9 weeks will aim to restore full function of the angle in terms of range of motion. Proprioception, balance, and coordination as well as further increased strength to prepare the individual for possible sports-specific rehab.

So let’s take a look at what kind of exercises one could do here:

Exercise overview:

• Alternative stepping on toes
• Standing on one foot (progress to an Airex mat or Bosu) for balance and proprioception
• Squats to at least 30° knee flexion (progress with added weight)
• Single-leg squats on stepper
• Two-legged and one-legged calf raises
• Two-legged hops progressed into one-legged hops

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If you are interested in early and mid-phase rehab exercises for Achilles tendon rupture repair, check out the posts below:

• Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair Rehab
• Intermediate Tendon Rupture Repair Rehab

Brumann M, Baumbach SF, Mutschler W, Polzer H. Accelerated rehabilitation following Achilles tendon repair after acute rupture–development of an evidence-based treatment protocol. Injury. 2014 Nov 1;45(11):1782-90.

Deng S, Sun Z, Zhang C, Chen G, Li J. Surgical treatment versus conservative management for acute Achilles tendon rupture: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. 2017 Nov 1;56(6):1236-43.