Biomechanics Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Biomechanics, including details on mechanics of living organisms, movement, locomotion, prosthetic limbs.

Randomised controlled trials of immediate weight-bearing mobilisation for rupture of the tendo Achillis.

Costa ML, MacMillan K, Halliday D, Chester R, Shepstone L, Robinson AH, Donell ST

School of Medicine, The University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, Norfolk, UK. mattcosta@hotmail.com

We performed two independent, randomised, controlled trials in order to assess the potential benefits of immediate weight-bearing mobilisation after rupture of the tendo Achillis. The first trial, on operatively-treated patients showed an improved functional outcome for patients mobilised fully weight-bearing after surgical repair. Two cases of re-rupture in the treatment group suggested that careful patient selection is required as patients need to follow a structured rehabilitation regimen. The second trial, on conservatively-treated patients, provided no evidence of a functional benefit from immediate weight-bearing mobilisation. However, the practical advantages of immediate weight-bearing did not predispose the patients to a higher complication rate. In particular, there was no evidence of tendon lengthening or a higher re-rupture rate. We would advocate immediate weight-bearing mobilisation for the rehabilitation of all patients with rupture of the tendo Achillis.

Published 20 December 2005 in J Bone Joint Surg Br, 88(1): 69-77.
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