Athletes That Have Comeback From Achilles Tears | Specialists Available Near You

Why Does Achilles Injury Recovery Take So Long?

The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is the largest and strongest tendon in the body. However, due to its limited blood supply and the immense forces it endures, recovery from an Achilles injury can be a lengthy process. Here's why:

1. Poor Blood Supply: Tendons, in general, have limited blood flow, and the Achilles tendon is particularly vulnerable. This slows down the healing process compared to muscle injuries, which have a richer blood supply.
2. High Load and Stress: The Achilles tendon is subjected to tremendous strain during activities like walking, running, and jumping. Rehabilitating this tendon requires a slow and progressive return to normal loading to prevent re-injury.
3. Tendon Healing Process: Tendons heal in stages:
• Inflammatory phase (first few days): The body sends repair cells to the site of injury, causing pain and swelling.
• Proliferative phase (weeks 2-6): New collagen fibers begin to form, but they are weak and disorganized.
• Remodeling phase (months 2-12): The new tissue strengthens and realigns, but full strength may take up to a year or more.
4. Risk of Re-Rupture: Returning to activity too soon after an Achilles injury increases the risk of re-rupture. Proper rehabilitation and gradual reloading are essential to avoid this risk.

Dr Scott Hanauer of Garden State Pain and Orthopedics explains the recovery time here: https://www.tiktok.com/@gardenstatepainortho/video/7277962613860912427 

How Are Achilles Ruptures Repaired?

Achilles tendon ruptures are serious injuries, often requiring surgery for complete healing, though some partial tears can be managed non-surgically. There are two primary approaches for Achilles tendon repair:

1. Surgical Repair:
• Open Surgery: The surgeon makes an incision along the back of the ankle and stitches the torn ends of the tendon back together. This method allows for direct visualization and precise repair.
• Minimally Invasive (Percutaneous) Repair: Smaller incisions are made, and the surgeon uses special instruments to sew the tendon back together without fully opening the area. This can reduce recovery time and scarring. At Garden State Pain and Orthopedics, Foot and Ankle Specialist, Dr. Scott Hanauer, uses a minimally invasive approach to achilles surgery. 
• You can watch Dr. Hanauer explain "How Achillies Surgery is Performed?" on our TikTok Here: https://www.tiktok.com/@gardenstatepainortho/video/7278698057800158507?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7377106088032847391 
2. Non-Surgical Treatment:
• In some cases, non-surgical management is chosen, especially for less severe tears or in patients who are less active. This involves immobilization in a cast or boot to allow the tendon to heal, followed by a rehabilitation program to regain strength and mobility.

Recovery Timeline

• Initial Recovery: Whether treated surgically or non-surgically, the foot is immobilized for several weeks, often in a cast or boot. Weight-bearing is gradually introduced.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is essential to restore strength, range of motion, and balance. Full return to high-impact activities, like running or jumping, can take 6-12 months, depending on the severity of the injury.

Notable Athletes Who Have Torn Their Achilles and Returned to Their Sport

Many high-level athletes have suffered Achilles tendon ruptures and made successful comebacks, though it remains a challenging injury. Here are some notable examples:

1. Kobe Bryant (NBA): The late basketball legend ruptured his Achilles in 2013. After surgery and extensive rehabilitation, he returned to the court eight months later, though the injury marked the beginning of the end of his career.
2. Kevin Durant (NBA): Durant tore his Achilles during the 2019 NBA Finals. After surgery and a year-long recovery, he returned in 2020 and regained his All-Star form.
3. David Beckham (Soccer): Beckham tore his Achilles tendon in 2010. After undergoing surgery and intensive rehab, he returned to play for the LA Galaxy later that year, though the injury affected his overall playing time.
4. Terrell Suggs (NFL): The linebacker tore his Achilles in 2012 but remarkably returned to play just six months later, helping the Baltimore Ravens win the Super Bowl that season.
5. Brandon Brooks (NFL): The Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman tore his Achilles in 2020 and returned to the field the following season.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers of the New York Jets tore his achilles during his first game as a Jet in September of 2023. He was out for the entire season, and is trying to make his case for Comeback Player of the Year in 2024. So far the Jets are out to a 2-1 start, and Rodgers looks 100% on the field. 

Achilles tendon ruptures are serious, but with advances in treatment and rehabilitation techniques, many athletes can make successful returns to their sport. However, a full recovery requires patience, commitment to rehab, and sometimes adjustments in playing style to avoid further injury. If you think you have an achilles injury, you can schedule an appointment with our Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Dr. Scott Hanauer. Dr. Hanauer will provide you with the best treatment options that fit your goals. 

Garden State Pain and Orthopedics has appointments available in Clifton, Jersey City, West Orange, and Edison, New Jersey.