This is the largest detailed study of conservative management of Achilles tendon rupture in the literature to date.

We assessed 140 subjects who had a complete rupture of their Achilles tendon treated with our combined conservative and orthotic regime between 1992 and 1998. Subjects were assessed subjectively and objectively, including isokinetic measurements of ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion.

Overall 56% had excellent, 30% good, 12% fair and 2% poor results. The complication rate was 4%, with only 3 tendon reruptures.

When compared with published results for operative repair, our combined conservative and orthotic treatment produces better results overall. Patients are subjectively happier, they have better strength results and have fewer complications.