La Achilles tendon rupture is a pathology This injury is quite common among elite athletes. To help them regain their full abilities, it is essential to ensure a complete and appropriate rehabilitation phase, tailored to the individual patient's profile. Let's explore the different stages of rehabilitation following an Achilles tendon rupture and the impact of neuroscience on its effectiveness.
Achilles tendon rupture: definition
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays a crucial role in walking and running, notably by facilitating foot flexion and propulsion. Its rupture, usually complete, is most often seen in elite athletes or relatively sedentary and/or poorly trained amateurs. An Achilles tendon rupture is generally caused by indirect trauma. It can also be exacerbated by pre-existing tendinitis or being overweight.
A tear occurs when excessive pressure is placed on the tendon, for example, during a sudden acceleration. To prevent this rupture, it is therefore essential to engage in regular physical activity. Each training session should be preceded by a suitable warm-up to optimize the elasticity of the calf muscles and tendon, as well as the proper recruitment of their fibers.
In the event of a rupture, walking becomes difficult, or even impossible, for the patient. This is the first important sign to note when diagnosing an Achilles tendon rupture. A clinical examination, with a positive Thompson test, is then performed. This test determines whether transverse pressure on the calf muscle no longer elicits plantar flexion. It should be noted, however, that the absence of this sign does not always rule out a diagnosis of an Achilles tendon rupture. Medical imaging (ultrasound or MRI) can be used to refine the diagnosis if there is any doubt, but generally, the clinical examination remains sufficient to determine the presence of a tendon rupture.
What are the appropriate treatments for a ruptured Achilles tendon?
In the event of an Achilles tendon rupture, it is essential to consult an orthopedic surgeon. In the case of a partial or complete rupture, a short leg brace may be used for a relatively short period to maintain the foot in plantar flexion. This aims to prevent the patient from stretching the tendon and to promote healing.
Following this phase, and depending on the severity of the rupture, the orthopedic surgeon will be able to decide whether the patient needs a cast or if surgery is necessary to repair the tendon. It is crucial that patients with a ruptured Achilles tendon avoid putting weight on the affected ankle and use crutches during the recovery period. In some cases of complete ruptures, immediate surgery is recommended.
The rehabilitation process following an Achilles tendon rupture
Once the Achilles tendon has repaired, the rehabilitation phase should begin. This is divided into four distinct phases, each with specific objectives to achieve and precise recommendations given by healthcare professionals.
- The first phase of rehabilitation begins the day after tendon repair and lasts for 21 days. During this phase, the patient must not perform any passive or active flexion. Instead, the practitioner will recommend circulatory exercises, lymphatic drainage, massage, and other treatments. activities muscle maintenance.
- The second phase extends from day 21 to day 45. It focuses on extending the triceps surae muscle. To achieve this, the patient will gradually wean themselves off crutches and relearn to walk without a brace (by day 45).
- The third phase extends from day 45 to day 90. It allows the patient to return to normal activities. In particular, they can start driving again (with the help of a 1 cm heel lift) and return to work. At the same time, the patient relearns how to go up and down stairs, while continuing to work on strengthening their muscles.
- The fourth phase extends from the 3rd to the 6th post-operative month. It is during this period that the patient is able to gradually resume sports activities (running with heel lifts, endurance training (cardio, swimming), general strength training, etc.). At the end of this final phase, the patient may be able to resume sports activities involving sudden accelerations (sprinting, plyometrics, single-leg stance, etc.).
The Allyane method in the context of rehabilitation following an Achilles tendon rupture
The Allyane neuromotor reprogramming method can be used as a complement to the rehabilitation process following an Achilles tendon rupture. Its effectiveness is particularly recognized among patients and athletes facing rehabilitation challenges. This approach is also highly beneficial for professional athletes engaged in a return-to-play process. It aims to accelerate and optimize their return to their initial performance level after an injury.
Note that the method Allyane Sport It is aimed at both professional and amateur athletes, notably by optimizing movement and athletic performance. This improvement is based on the integration of various elements, such as mental imagery, proprioception, and listening to low-frequency sounds emitted by a patented medical device.
Would you like to benefit from the advantages of our neuromotor reprogramming solution? Find a certified professional near you !