The healing time for a ruptured ankle tendon can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s healing ability. On average, it can take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks for the tendon to fully heal. However, it is important to note that this is just the initial healing phase and does not mean that the ankle is fully restored to its pre-injury state.
During the first few weeks after the injury, the body initiates the healing process by forming scar tissue. This scar tissue helps to bridge the gap in the tendon and provides some stability to the ankle. However, it is not as strong or flexible as the original tendon, and therefore, caution must be taken during this time to avoid re-injury.
As the healing progresses, physical therapy and rehabilitation play a crucial role in restoring function and strength to the ankle. This phase of recovery can take several months and may involve various exercises and modalities to improve range of motion, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and promote proper healing of the tendon.
It is important to note that the restoration of full function and the ability to accept full activity, load, and stress can take up to one year. This is because the healing process involves not only the repair of the tendon but also the adaptation of the surrounding tissues and structures to accommodate the repaired tendon.
During the recovery period, it is common to experience some discomfort, swelling, and stiffness in the ankle. This can vary from person to person, and some individuals may require longer recovery times due to individual factors such as age, overall health, and the extent of the injury.
In my personal experience, I ruptured my ankle tendon while playing basketball. The initial phase of healing was challenging as I had to use crutches and wear a brace to immobilize the ankle. It took around 10 weeks for the tendon to heal, but I still had to undergo a lengthy rehabilitation process to regain full function and strength in my ankle.
During the rehabilitation phase, I worked closely with a physical therapist who guided me through exercises to improve my range of motion, build strength, and gradually increase my activity level. It was a slow and gradual process, but with consistent effort and dedication, I was able to regain full function in my ankle after about a year.
The healing time for a ruptured ankle tendon can take up to 8-12 weeks. However, the restoration of full function and the ability to accept full activity, load, and stress can take up to one year. It is important to follow a comprehensive rehabilitation program to ensure proper healing and avoid re-injury.