What to expect from post-operative rehabilitation for Achilles tendon rupture

Your surgeon and physiotherapist coordinate the progression. Early appointments may focus on swelling, safe transfers, crutch use and protecting the tendon in a boot or cast. Ankle movement is introduced within specific limits because forcing the foot upward can strain the repair. Later sessions may add controlled walking, seated and standing calf work, resistance, balance drills and task-specific practice. The pace depends on the repair, wound healing, examination findings and your surgeon’s protocol; two people can therefore have different milestones.

Keep the boot or cast positioned as instructed and use crutches until weight-bearing is approved. Complete only the exercises prescribed for your current phase. Elevate the leg when swelling builds, check the skin around the support, and keep follow-up appointments. Do not stretch the calf aggressively, walk barefoot, or test a heel raise before clearance. Tell your therapist about a sudden snap, a new gap near the tendon, increasing weakness or a change in walking ability.

Seek prompt medical advice for wound drainage, spreading redness, fever, worsening pain, a tight or damaged boot, or new numbness in the foot. Urgent assessment is needed for sudden calf swelling or pain, chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or a foot that becomes cold or discoloured. A sudden loss of push-off or a snap behind the ankle may indicate a tendon problem and should not be managed by adding exercises.

Ask which boot settings and weight-bearing limits apply, when ankle movement can progress, how to manage swelling, and what signs suggest the repair needs review. Discuss work, driving, stairs and the expected steps before running or jumping.