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Won Lee K, Bae JY, Ho BC, Kim JH, Seo DK. Immediate Weightbearing and Ankle Motion Exercise After Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture Repair. J Foot Ankle Surg 2022; 61:604-608. [PMID: 34785129 DOI: 10.1053/j.jfas.2021.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of Achilles tendon rupture is increasing. Postoperative rehabilitation after repairing acute Achilles tendon rupture is very important because the choice of treatment during the rehabilitation period can influence the results. Moreover, the method of functional rehabilitation varies and is developing steadily. Recent studies recommend a functional rehabilitation protocol, and this approach is accepted widely. This study aimed to introduce our most accelerated functional rehabilitation protocol following surgery for acute Achilles tendon rupture and to review the results retrospectively. From July 2014 to July 2016, 67 patients underwent surgery for acute Achilles tendon rupture by one surgeon. Age, sex, body mass index, injury mechanism, rehabilitation method and progress, time to return to previous physical activity, and complications were evaluated. The mean time to be able to squat fully was 10 ± 4.7 (4-20) weeks. Full squatting was possible in 92.8% (52 patients). The mean time to perform a single-limb heel rise and repetitive single-limb heel rise was 12.6 ± 3.9 (6-24) and 23.3 ± 7.7 (8-40) weeks, respectively. The mean time to return to sports was 20.6 ± 5.2 (12-32) weeks. The major complication rate was 3.5% (one re-rupture and one tendon elongation). The mean pre- and postoperative Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score was 29.5 ± 3.7 (20-38) and 79.3 ± 18.5 (20-98) points, respectively. The increase was significant (p < .01). In conclusion, immediate full weightbearing and ankle motion exercise after repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture can provide a good rehabilitation option with a low re-rupture rate and satisfactory functional results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Won Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, GangNeung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, GangNeung-si, South Korea
| | - Joo-Yul Bae
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, GangNeung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, GangNeung-si, South Korea
| | - Byeong Cheol Ho
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, GangNeung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, GangNeung-si, South Korea
| | - Joon Hee Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, GangNeung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, GangNeung-si, South Korea
| | - Dong-Kyo Seo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, GangNeung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, GangNeung-si, South Korea.
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Postoperative Rehabilitation Following Achilles Tendon Repair: A Systematic Review. Sports Med Arthrosc Rev 2021; 29:130-145. [PMID: 33972490 DOI: 10.1097/jsa.0000000000000309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The optimal postoperative management of Achilles tendon (AT) rupture remains unknown. The past 2 decades have witnessed a trend toward less rigid immobilization, earlier weightbearing, and accelerated functional rehabilitation postoperatively. The objective of this study was to identify all high-quality studies pertaining to rehabilitation after AT repair and characterize the various rehabilitation protocols that have been described. A systematic review of the English-language literature was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. All included studies represented level 1, 2, or 3 evidence and examined postoperative rehabilitation protocols following the repair of an acute AT rupture. A total of 1187 subjects were included. Surgical technique, rehabilitation protocol, and outcome assessment varied widely between studies. Early postoperative weightbearing with less rigid immobilization appears to accelerate short-term functional recovery. An aggressive rehabilitation program may also be advantageous in the short term, but further studies are needed to determine the long-term effects of these accelerated physical therapy and return-to-play protocols.
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Rehabilitation of Achilles tendon ruptures: is early functional rehabilitation daily routine? Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 2017; 137:333-340. [PMID: 28097423 DOI: 10.1007/s00402-017-2627-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ruptures of the Achilles tendon are the most common tendon injuries of the lower extremities. Besides the initial operative or non-operative treatment, rehabilitation of patients plays a crucial role for tendon healing and long-term outcome. As only limited evidence is available for optimized rehabilitation regimen and guidelines for the initial (e.g., first 6 weeks) rehabilitation are limited, this study investigated the current rehabilitation concepts after Achilles tendon rupture. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed 213 written rehabilitation protocols that are provided by orthopedic and trauma surgery institutions throughout Germany in terms of recommendations for weight-bearing, range of motion (ROM), physiotherapy, and choice of orthosis. All protocols for operatively and non-operatively treated Achilles tendon ruptures were included. Descriptive analysis was carried out and statistical analysis applied where appropriate. RESULTS Of 213 institutions, 204 offered rehabilitation protocols for Achilles tendon rupture and, therefore, 243 protocols for operative and non-operative treatment could be analyzed. While the majority of protocols allowed increased weight-bearing over time, significant differences were found for durations of fixed plantar flexion between operative (o) and non-operative (n) treatments [fixed 30° (or 20)° to 15° (or 10)°: 3.6 weeks (±0.1; o) vs 4.7 weeks (±0.3; n) (p ≤ 0.0001) and fixed 15° (or 10)° to 0°: 5.8 weeks (±0.1; o) vs 6.6 weeks (±0.2; n) (p ≤ 0.001)]. The mean time of the recommended start of physiotherapy is at 2.9 weeks (±0.2; o) vs 3.3 weeks (±0.4; n), respectively. CONCLUSION Our study shows that a huge variability in rehabilitation after Achilles tendon rupture exists. This study shows different strategies in rehabilitation of Achilles tendon ruptures using a convertible vacuum brace system. To improve patient care, further clinical as well as biomechanical studies need to be conducted. This study might serve as basis for prospective randomized controlled trials to optimize rehabilitation for Achilles tendon ruptures.
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Seabra AD, Moraes SAS, Batista EJO, Garcia TB, Souza MC, Oliveira KRM, Herculano AM. Local inhibition of nitrergic activity in tenotomized rats accelerates muscle regeneration by increasing fiber area and decreasing central core lesions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 50:e5556. [PMID: 28225888 PMCID: PMC5333718 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20165556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Muscular atrophy is a progressive degeneration characterized by muscular proteolysis, loss of mass and decrease in fiber area. Tendon rupture induces muscular atrophy due to an intrinsic functional connection. Local inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) by Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) accelerates tendon histological recovery and induces functional improvement. Here we evaluate the effects of such local nitrergic inhibition on the pattern of soleus muscle regeneration after tenotomy. Adult male Wistar rats (240 to 280 g) were divided into four experimental groups: control (n=4), tenotomized (n=6), vehicle (n=6), and L-NAME (n=6). Muscular atrophy was induced by calcaneal tendon rupture in rats. Changes in muscle wet weight and total protein levels were determined by the Bradford method, and muscle fiber area and central core lesion (CCL) occurrence were evaluated by histochemical assays. Compared to tenotomized (69.3±22%) and vehicle groups (68.1%±17%), L-NAME treatment induced an increase in total protein level (108.3±21%) after 21 days post-injury. A reduction in fiber areas was observed in tenotomized (56.3±1.3%) and vehicle groups (53.9±3.9%). However, L-NAME treatment caused an increase in this parameter (69.3±1.6%). Such events were preceded by a remarkable reduction in the number of fibers with CCL in L-NAME-treated animals (12±2%), but not in tenotomized (21±2.5%) and vehicle groups (19.6±2.8%). Altogether, our data reveal that inhibition of tendon NOS contributed to the attenuation of atrophy and acceleration of muscle regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Seabra
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia Experimental, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brasil
| | - S A S Moraes
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia Experimental, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brasil
| | - E J O Batista
- Núcleo de Medicina Tropical, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brasil
| | - T B Garcia
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia Experimental, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brasil
| | - M C Souza
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia Experimental, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brasil
| | - K R M Oliveira
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia Experimental, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brasil
| | - A M Herculano
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia Experimental, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brasil
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Huang J, Wang C, Ma X, Wang X, Zhang C, Chen L. Rehabilitation regimen after surgical treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Am J Sports Med 2015; 43:1008-16. [PMID: 24793572 DOI: 10.1177/0363546514531014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The choice of rehabilitation management after the surgical repair of acute Achilles tendon (AT) ruptures remains controversial because of insufficient clinical evidence. The current study analyzes the postoperative rehabilitation of AT ruptures based on the current clinical evidence. PURPOSE To identify and analyze the high-level clinical evidence regarding postoperative rehabilitation after the surgical repair of AT ruptures. Subgroup analyses were also performed to obtain more reliable and specific results. STUDY DESIGN Meta-analysis. METHODS The studies were retrieved by searching the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases through the OVID retrieval engine from 1990 to August 14, 2013. Two independent reviewers critically reviewed the studies using preset inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the eligible studies was assessed by the Cochrane 12-item scale. All included studies were summarized, and their data were extracted. Subgroup analyses were performed according to the different protocols of early functional rehabilitation. RESULTS Nine studies, consisting of 6 randomized controlled trials and 3 quasi-randomized studies, were ultimately included. A total of 402 patients were identified. Six of the included studies utilized early weightbearing combined with early ankle motion exercises, while the other 3 only employed early ankle motion exercises. The subgroup analyses demonstrated that 11 of the 15 functional outcome measurements were significantly superior for patients who underwent both early weightbearing and ankle motion exercises than for those who underwent conventional cast immobilization. Similar rates of reruptures (odds ratio [OR], 1.36; 95% CI, 0.38-4.91; P = .64) and major complications (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.24-1.87; P = .44) as well as a significantly lower rate of minor complications (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.27-0.95; P = .03) were also observed in this early functional rehabilitation group. For the patients who solely performed early ankle motion exercises, only 2 of the 14 functional measurements were observed to be significantly superior to immobilization. There were also no significant differences in the rates of reruptures (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.08-2.70; P = .40) and other complications (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.41-2.92; P = .86) between the 2 groups. CONCLUSION Postoperative early weightbearing combined with early ankle motion exercises is associated with a lower minor complication rate and achieves superior and more rapid functional recovery than conventional immobilization after surgical AT repair. In contrast, few advantages were identified when only early ankle motion exercises were applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiazhang Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Liu MJ, Li JX, Lee KM, Qin L, Chan KM. Oxidative stress after muscle damage from immobilization and remobilization occurs locally and systemically. Clin Orthop Relat Res 2005:246-50. [PMID: 15864060 DOI: 10.1097/01.blo.0000150464.29883.ca] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Higher oxidative stress reportedly plays a key role in muscle damage caused by immobilization and subsequent remobilization. However, we have no clear understanding regarding oxidative stress during immobilization and remobilization. The purpose of this study was to clarify the characteristics of oxidative stress by measuring oxidative stress locally and systemically. Twenty-three New Zealand White rabbits were used in this study. Blood samples were collected on Days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 of immobilization, and Days 1, 2, 3, and 4 of remobilization. The soleus muscles in immobilized and nonimmobilized limbs were harvested on Day 21 of immobilization and Day 7 or Day 14 of remobilization. Muscle wet weight was determined as the indicator of muscle atrophy. The levels of lipid peroxidation and glutathione in plasma and soleus muscles were measured. Immobilization and remobilization induced an increase in the lipid peroxidation levels and a decrease in glutathione levels in muscle and blood. These findings suggest that oxidative stress occurs locally and systemically, lasts throughout the immobilization period, but peaks at the early phase of remobilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Ju Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
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Maffulli N, Tallon C, Wong J, Lim KP, Bleakney R. Early weightbearing and ankle mobilization after open repair of acute midsubstance tears of the achilles tendon. Am J Sports Med 2003; 31:692-700. [PMID: 12975188 DOI: 10.1177/03635465030310051001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the effects of early weightbearing and ankle mobilization after acute repair of ruptured Achilles tendon. STUDY DESIGN Comparative longitudinal study. METHODS Patients in group 1 were postoperatively immobilized with their ankle in gravity equinus, they were encouraged to bear weight on the operated limb as soon as possible to full weightbearing, and they received a single cast change at 2 weeks, with the ankle accommodated in an anterior splint in a plantigrade position, allowing the ankle to be plantar flexed fully but not dorsiflexed above neutral. Patients in group 2 were immobilized with their ankle in full equinus with a cast change at 2 weeks, when the ankle was immobilized in mid equinus, and at 4 weeks, when the ankle was immobilized in a plantigrade position, and they were advised to bear weight. RESULTS Patients in group 1 attended fewer outpatient visits, completely discarded their crutches at an average of 2.5 weeks, and more were satisfied with the results of surgery. At ultrasonography, the average thickness of the repaired tendon was 12.1 mm, with no difference in the thickness of the ruptured tendon regardless of postoperative management. There was no significant difference in isometric strength between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Early weightbearing with the ankle plantigrade is not detrimental to the outcome of repair after acute rupture of the Achilles tendon and shortens the time needed for rehabilitation. However, strength deficit and muscle atrophy are not prevented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Maffulli
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Keele University School of Medicine, North Staffordshire Hospital, Hartshill, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire, England
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Kangas J, Pajala A, Siira P, Hämäläinen M, Leppilahti J. Early functional treatment versus early immobilization in tension of the musculotendinous unit after Achilles rupture repair: a prospective, randomized, clinical study. THE JOURNAL OF TRAUMA 2003; 54:1171-80; discussion 1180-1. [PMID: 12813340 DOI: 10.1097/01.ta.0000047945.20863.a2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of our prospective, randomized, clinical study was to compare two postoperative regimens after Achilles rupture repair and determine whether early functional treatment will give a better result than early immobilization in tension of the musculotendinous unit. METHODS Fifty patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture were randomized postoperatively to receive either early movement of the ankle between neutral and plantar flexion in a brace for 6 weeks or Achilles tendon immobilization in tension using a below-knee cast with the ankle in a neutral position for 6 weeks. Full weight bearing was allowed after 3 weeks in both groups. The patients were assessed clinically at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 weeks, and the last control visit took place at a mean of 60 (SD 6.4) weeks postoperatively. RESULTS The isokinetic calf muscle strength scores were excellent in 56%, good in 32%, fair in 8%, and poor in 4% of the patients in the early motion group at the last control checkup; whereas the scores in the cast group were excellent in 29%, good in 50%, and fair in 21% of the patients. The ankle performance scores were excellent or good in 88%, fair in 4%, and poor in 8% of the patients in the early motion group, whereas the scores in the cast group were excellent or good in 92% and fair in 8% of the patients. At 3 months and at the last control checkup, no significant differences were seen between the two groups with regard to pain, stiffness, subjective calf muscle weakness, footwear restrictions, range of ankle motion, isokinetic calf muscle strength, or overall outcome. The complications included one rerupture in the early motion group and one deep infection and two reruptures in the cast group. Deep infection and the rerupture in the cast group occurred in the same patient. The outcome of the complications was good in two cases and poor in one. CONCLUSION The isokinetic calf muscle strength results were somewhat better in the early motion group, whereas the other outcome results obtained in the two groups of patients were very similar. We recommend early functional postoperative treatment after Achilles rupture repair for athletes and well-motivated patients and for less-motivated patients and nonathletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarmo Kangas
- Department of Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Finland
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Matsumoto F, Trudel G, Uhthoff HK, Backman DS. Mechanical effects of immobilization on the Achilles' tendon. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2003; 84:662-7. [PMID: 12736878 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-9993(02)04834-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure the biomechanical effects of immobilization on the Achilles' tendon. DESIGN Experimental, controlled study. SETTING Physiatry research laboratory. ANIMALS Twenty adult rabbits. INTERVENTION One hindlimb immobilized in a cast for 4 weeks (n=10) or 8 weeks (n=10). The contralateral legs (n=20) served as controls. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Cross-sectional Achilles' tendon area, mode of failure, mean failure load, and tendon stiffness. RESULTS The Achilles' tendon cross-sectional area did not change. Achilles' tendon-calcaneus units failed at insertion at 4 weeks and in controls. Calcaneus fracture was the most prevalent mode of failure at 8 weeks. The mean load to failure of both immobilized groups (4wk: 187.5+/-45.7N; 8wk: 162.6+/-39.3N) was significantly smaller than that of the control group (549.2+/-93.7N, both P<.005). The mean tendon stiffness of both immobilized groups (4wk: 64.6+/-24.8N/mm; 8wk: 53.9+/-19.9N/mm) was significantly lower than that of the control group (125.1+/-26.5N/mm, both P<.005). CONCLUSIONS Immobility for up to 8 weeks caused decreased stiffness but no atrophy or rupture of the Achilles' tendon, suggesting that immobility does not constitute a risk factor for Achilles' tendon midsubstance rupture. Clinically, graded reloading is required after immobilization to restore the tendon insertion and to reverse calcaneal disuse osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fujio Matsumoto
- Bone and Joint Laboratory, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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