Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Complete Tear of the Achilles Tendon
What is a complete tear of the achilles tendon?
A complete tear of the Achilles tendon is a full rupture of the strong tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This type of injury is serious and requires structured rehabilitation. Physiotherapy is essential after a complete tear, as it helps restore strength, flexibility, and normal function to the tendon while reducing the risk of long-term weakness or re-injury.
How does a complete tear of the achilles tendon happen?
Complete tears of the Achilles tendon usually occur when the calf muscles contract forcefully, placing excessive stress on the tendon and causing it to rupture. This type of injury is most common in sports and activities that involve sudden explosive movements such as changing direction quickly, lunging, or jumping.
What are the symptoms of a complete tear of the achilles tendon?
If the achilles tendon is partially torn, pain is usually felt in the back of the lower leg and is often described as the sensation of being kicked in the back of the ankle. In some cases, there may also be an audible snap, crack, or tearing sound at the time of injury. Swelling, tenderness, and difficulty pushing off the foot when walking are also common.
- Sudden sharp pain in the back of the ankle or lower leg
- Swelling and tenderness around the heel or calf
- Weakness when pushing off the foot while walking
- Difficulty or inability to stand on tiptoe
- Bruising around the ankle or calf
- A visible gap or depression in the tendon area (in more severe cases)
What should I do if I have a complete tear of my achilles tendon?
A complete tear of the achilles tendon will not heal on its own and requires surgical repair. If you suspect you have ruptured your achilles tendon, you should go to your nearest accident and emergency department immediately. While awaiting treatment, you can follow the RICE regime (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to help control bleeding, swelling, and discomfort in the affected area.
Physiotherapy treatment for a complete tear of the achilles tendon.
Surgery for a complete achilles tendon rupture is usually carried out as soon as possible after the injury. This means your first physiotherapy assessment often takes place after the surgical repair. At Physio.co.uk, our physiotherapists liaise closely with your surgeon throughout your rehabilitation. We work alongside many orthopaedic surgeons and are experienced in following a wide range of post-operative protocols. After your period of immobilisation in a cast, your physiotherapist will guide you through a structured rehabilitation programme. This will include specific stretching, muscle strengthening, and tendon-loading exercises to gradually restore function and help you return to your previous level of activity.
- Manual therapy techniques
- Soft tissue massage
- Joint mobilisation
- Ultrasound therapy
- Shockwave therapy
- Strengthening and stretching exercises
- Balance and proprioception training
- Gradual return-to-sport programmes
What shouldn’t I do if I have a complete tear of my achilles tendon?
Following a complete tear of the Achilles tendon, you should avoid any activities that increase blood flow to the injured area, as this can lead to further bleeding and swelling. Such activities include taking hot showers, applying heat rubs, consuming alcohol, and engaging in excessive physical activity.
Could there be any long-term effects from a complete tear of my achilles tendon?
A complete tear of the Achilles tendon is a serious injury that requires surgical repair and immobilisation in a cast. After surgery, you will be unable to walk on the injured leg for six to eight weeks. Full recovery, including restoration of muscle length and joint range of motion, may take six to twelve months before you can safely return to sports. With surgery and appropriate rehabilitation, this type of injury is usually very successfully treated.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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