Achilles Rupture: The Conservative Treatment Protocol That Actually Works

🦶 Complete Physio: https://rdar.li/4Y3K8Dr 💉 Complete Injections: https://rdar.li/mZP48Vr What does good conservative management of an Achilles rupture actually look like? In this video, Sam, a leading foot and ankle surgeon with decades of experience, and Chris, an experienced physiotherapist, break down everything you need to know — from diagnosis and early management, to boot protocols, rehab, and the risk of elongation. 0:00 Introduction and why this follow-up podcast exists 1:54 Why time of presentation is critical for conservative treatment 3:15 What happens if you present late after a rupture 4:21 Understanding the tendon gap and why the ends must come together 5:10 The role of ultrasound in diagnosis 8:05 Why "partial ruptures" are almost never real 9:22 Using ultrasound alongside clinical assessment 11:42 Clinical examination: why it remains the gold standard 13:45 Conservative vs surgical: activity level and sport type 14:45 Elite sport and why surgery is always recommended 16:00 What good conservative healing actually looks like 17:00 Boot protocols: back slab, aircast and the VACOped 19:22 Boot options: pros, cons and what the evidence says 21:43 Early weight bearing and why loading matters 23:01 Step count, lifestyle changes and managing activity 24:54 Wearing the boot 24/7: sleep, showering and safety 26:04 The risk of rerupture in the shower and at home 28:15 Week 6 onwards: reducing the angle gradually 29:08 Why elongation is the biggest fear in conservative treatment 30:00 Stretching: what not to do and why 31:43 When physiotherapy actually starts to matter 33:40 Coming out of the boot: heel raises and footwear advice 34:33 When reruptures most commonly happen and how to avoid them 36:26 Muscle stimulators and managing calf wasting 38:25 Realistic return to sport timelines — and why you can't rush it 39:37 David Beckham's rupture and what it tells us about recovery 41:19 Conservative rerupture rates: then vs now 43:00 The SMART trial and when surgery should still be considered 44:07 Top tips for perfect conservative management 45:55 Testing for elongation: the clinical signs to watch for 🌐 www.complete-physio.co.uk 📞 020 7482 3875 📧 info@complete-physio.co.uk The information provided in this video is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, such as your GP or a registered medical professional, before beginning any new exercise program, making significant changes to your diet, or taking any new medication or supplements. Never disregard medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have seen or heard in this content.

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