Achilles Reconstruction Surgery

The Achilles tendon is the thickest and strongest tendon in your body. It is located at the back of your leg, right above your ankle. You have two Achilles tendons, one in each leg. The Achilles has many functions, including helping you walk, run, jump, and climb stairs. Without your achilles tendon, you wouldn’t be able to push off your foot to walk, run, or jump, making it extremely difficult to move normally.

When the achilles is overused or used too much or too hard, it can become irritated or inflamed, causing achilles tendinitis. When the achilles tendon tears or ruptures, surgery may be needed to repair the tendon and restore normal movement of the leg. An achilles tear or rupture is more common for individuals that are aged 30-40, and those who are athletes that participate in high-intensity activity. When an achilles is torn, it can sound like a pop or snap, and is usually followed by sudden pain and difficulty walking. Sudden stops, rapid movement, or jumping can all increase the risk of an Achilles tear or rupture.

An Achilles reconstruction surgery happens if the achilles is fully torn or can’t heal properly. During the surgery, an incision is made in the back of the calf. If the tendon is ruptured, the surgeon will stitch the tendon back together. On the other hand, if the tendon is degenerated, the surgeon may remove the part of the tendon that is damaged, and then stitch the rest of the healthy tendon back together to restore its strength and function. If severe enough, the whole achilles tendon may be replaced if the tendon is completely destroyed or cannot be repaired using the remaining healthy tissue.

After Achilles reconstruction surgery, recovery can be quite extensive. You will need to wear a cast or walking boot for 6-12 weeks after surgery. You may be able to put weight on your leg after several weeks, but it could take several months before you have complete use of your leg and ankle. Rehab and physical therapy are usually needed to restore strength, flexibility, and normal movement of the foot and leg. After surgery, sleep is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and healing process. A healthy diet is also essential to ensure that your body gets the nutrition it needs during the recovery process. If the doctor prescribes medicine, then be sure to take it exactly as directed to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection. You can take baths and showers if told by your doctor, and make sure the incision area is clean and dry when doing so to prevent infection. While the recovery process can be intense and extensive, it is important to know that with proper care, rehabilitation, and patience, most people can regain normal function and return to their regular activities.

Written by Henry Tran at Incisionary

References

Achilles Tendon Repair Surgery. (n.d.). Www.hopkinsmedicine.org. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/achilles-tendon-repair-surgery 

Cleveland Clinic. (2021, August 11). Achilles Tendon Rupture: What Is It, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21703-achilles-tendon-rupture 

Cleveland Clinic. (2023, December 7). Where Is the Achilles Tendon? Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/achilles-tendon-calcaneal-tendon 

Mayo Clinic. (2018). Achilles tendinitis - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369020 

Villano, M. (2025, December 3). Achilles tendon injuries are on the rise. Experts explain the reasons why. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/03/health/achilles-tendon-injuries-wellness