Achilles Rupture: Acute to Mid-Stage Rehab

Course overview

This Practical provides a comprehensive, stage-based approach to the management of an acute Achilles tendon rupture from the time of injury through boot removal and the first heel-rise progressions. It begins with assessment of the injury mechanism, clinical diagnosis, imaging considerations, immediate bracing, and shared decision-making around surgical versus non-surgical care, expected timelines, prognosis, and patient education. The Practical then progresses through the post-injury/pre-operative stage, early controlled mobilization, controlled mobilization, and the transition toward independent gait. Emphasis is placed on protecting tendon healing, minimizing tendon elongation, monitoring for complications such as DVT, restoring early plantarflexor activation, and building the seated and early standing strength needed to safely progress out of the boot.