Non-Surgical Treatment of Tendo Achillis Rupture

¹ From Sherman Hospital, Elgin

We have analyzed the results in sixty-six cases of Achilles tendon injury which were treated by a simple non-surgical method. A gravity equinus walking boot cast was applied for eight weeks. The patient then used a 2.5 centimeter heel elevation for four weeks. Resistance exercises were used to build up the triceps surae. The frequent complications in other series of operative repair were discussed. The virtues of this method are that the hazards of anesthesia and open surgery are avoided. The complications of infection, skin slough, and scar formation do not occur, and the patient is spared the expense of hospitalization. Early return to work is a distinct economic advantage. The functional results are as entirely satisfactory as those from operative repair; the cosmetic appearance is much better.

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