Non-operative return to activity
In patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture treated non-operatively, we are unable to recommend a specific time at which patients can return to athletic activity.
Rationale
A systematic review identified 5 level IV studies21,5,20, 19,25 providing data on return to sports after non-operative treatment. These studies did not provide adequate evidence to make a recommendation for the specific time patients can return to athletic activity following non-operative treatment for Achilles tendon rupture.
- (19) Cetti R, Christensen SE, Ejsted R, Jensen NM, Jorgensen U. Operative versus nonoperative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture. A prospective randomized study and review of the literature. Am J Sports Med 1993;21(6):791-799.
- (20) Moller M, Movin T, Granhed H, Lind K, Faxen E, Karlsson J. Acute rupture of tendon Achillis. A prospective randomised study of comparison between surgical and non-surgical treatment. J Bone Joint Surg Br 2001;83(6):843-848.
- (21) Metz R, Verleisdonk EJ, van der Heijden GJ et al. Acute Achilles tendon rupture: minimally invasive surgery versus nonoperative treatment with immediate full weightbearing--a randomized controlled trial. Am J Sports Med 2008;36(9):1688-1694.
- (25) Wallace RG, Traynor IE, Kernohan WG, Eames MH. Combined conservative and orthotic management of acute ruptures of the Achilles tendon. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2004;86-A(6):1198-1202.
- (5) Costa ML, MacMillan K, Halliday D et al. Randomised controlled trials of immediate weight bearing mobilisation for rupture of the tendo Achillis. J Bone Joint Surg Br 2006;88(1):69-77.