Systematic Review of Nonoperative Functional Protocols for Acute Achilles Ruptures Utilizing a Formal Rehabilitation Protocol Showing Lowest Rerupture Rates

Abstract

Aim. To lay out a comprehensive protocol for practitioners and physical therapists that has the lowest rerupture rates for nonoperative treatment of acute Achilles ruptures. Method. Relevant articles were searched in PubMed, CINAHL Plus, and Cochrane Library using keyword combinations: nonoperative AND/OR Achilles rupture AND functional AND/OR protocol or functional AND/OR rehabilitation. To be included in the full analysis, the studies had to have detailed functional protocols with physical therapy program details and outcome scores of rupture rates and/or Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS). We ultimately found 7 articles that fit our inclusion criteria for analysis. All of them had rerupture rates, and 4 had ATRS scores and functional protocols with mention of formal physical therapy programs. Results. Lowest rerupture rates were found in strict functional rehabilitation protocols that were full weightbearing in boot immediately at full equinus or 30° plantar flexed. They started active range of motion at 5 to 8 weeks and started formal physical therapy at 10 weeks.

Levels of Evidence: Level III: Evidence obtained from well-designed non-experimental descriptive studies