Background: Achilles tendon rupture is an orthopedic injury resulting when the Achilles tendon fails to withstand the forces exerted upon itself, where the majority of the fibers become torn. Patients with this injury elect for either a surgical or conservative approach, depending on the functional status of the patient in line with their goals and level of activity. Gait normalization and early weight-bearing have been examined through multiple studies, measuring tendon length, muscle strength, and long term outcomes for return to sport. Purpose/Case Description: The purpose of this case report is to highlight a more aggressive rehabilitation strategy with respect given to the normalization of gait mechanics as an indicator for progression. The patient was an active male in his 20s who was seen 5 weeks following his Achilles tendon rupture repair, and subsequently seen 2-3 times per week for 9 weeks. Interventions/Outcomes: Interventions include the promotion of early weight-bearing, the normalization of the gait pattern, strengthening, range of motion, and incision care/scar mobilization. Outcomes were assessed using manual muscle testing, goniometry, skilled observation, and patient adherence. The patient saw substantial increases in his muscle strength, ankle range of motion, and ability to perform ADLs and participate in community events throughout the plan of care. Discussion: This case report highlights a relatively aggressive approach to Achilles tendon rupture rehabilitation, utilizing the normalization of gait as an indicator for readiness to progression.
Dissertation
Early Post-Operative Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair: Why Weight-Bearing and Normalization of Gait Pattern Matters: A Case Report
University of Iowa
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) , University of Iowa
Autumn 2022
Free to read and download, Open Access
Abstract
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Early Post-Operative Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair: Why Weight-Bearing and Normalization of Gait Pattern Matters: A Case Report
- Creators
- Tristan Brown - University of Iowa
- Contributors
- Laura Frey-Law (Advisor) - University of IowaMichael Petrie (Advisor) - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Project Type
- Case Report
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) , University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science
- Date degree season
- Autumn 2022
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- 10 pages
- Copyright
- Copyright © 2022 Tristan Brown
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Case Reports
- Record Identifier
- 9984560251702771
Metrics
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