Achilles tendon surgery: How long is the recovery time?

A ruptured Achilles tendon, or ruptured Achilles tendon, is a common tendon injury caused by accidents or sports injuries. In severe cases, surgical treatment is needed to restore heel function. The following article will answer the questions that most patients often worry about before having heel tendon surgery.

content

• How long does surgery take? Anesthesia or anesthesia?
• After surgery
• How long is the recovery time after surgery?

How long does surgery take? Anesthesia or anesthesia?

During surgery, the patient may need anesthesia or just anesthesia from the waist down. The surgery can take 30 minutes, up to 1 hour or longer depending on the condition of the tendon rupture.

You can learn more: Can a Achilles tendon rupture be repaired?

When you wake up, you may find that your ankle is splinted. This keeps the leg from moving. Surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon is usually an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day. You should arrange for a loved one to drive you home after surgery.

After surgery

After surgery, you need to limit your movement. Pain relievers will help relieve pain for the first few days after surgery. You also need to keep your legs elevated regularly to reduce swelling and pain. Contact your doctor if you develop a high fever or worsen pain in your ankle or calf.

You can learn more: Heel A-sinus and Achilles Tendonitis in Sports

How long is the recovery time after surgery?

Depending on the severity of the case, the recovery time will vary. Your doctor will tell you when you can walk normally. Physical therapy may be needed to help you recover faster.

After surgery, you will need a cast and limited mobility for a while and will need to learn to walk on crutches. Normally after 15 weeks muscle strength returns to normal, after 6 months can play moderate sports.

You can learn more: Heel pain: Common causes

Recovery can take up to 6 months on average. The good news is that with early treatment and proper physical therapy, most Achilles tendon rupture patients can make a full recovery.