Evidence-based orthopaedic surgery emphasizes the need to properly design and perform high-quality randomized controlled trials to minimize bias and to truly ensure the effectiveness of orthopaedic interventions. The currently available best evidence suggests to load and move the Achilles tendon after an open or percutaneous repair for an acute rupture.

Following repair of the torn AT, patients are immobilized with their ankle in gravity equines. They are encouraged to bear weight on the operated limb as soon as possible to full weightbearing, and discharged home on the day of the procedure. All patients are given an appointment for review 2 weeks postoperatively, when they receive a single cast change, with the ankle accommodated in a removable anterior splint in a plantigrade position, secured to the lower leg and foot with Velcro straps. Removal of the foot straps under supervision of a physiotherapist allowes the ankle to be plantar flexed fully but not dorsiflexed. These exercises are performed against manual resistance. At 6 weeks postoperatively, the anterior splint is removed, and the patient referred to physiotherapy for active mobilization.

At 12 weeks postoperatively, patients are assessed as to whether they are able to undertake more vigorous physiotherapy, and encouraged to gradually return to their normal activities. Progressive activities are incorporated as strength allowed, with the aim to return to unrestricted activities 6 months following surgery.

Achilles tendinopathy is a common cause of disability. Despite the economic and social relevance of the problem, the causes and mechanisms of Achilles tendinopathy remain unclear. Tendon vascularity, gastrocnemius-soleus dysfunction, age, gender, body weight and height, pes cavus, and lateral ankle instability are considered common intrinsic factors. The essence of Achilles tendinopathy is a failed healing response, with haphazard proliferation of tenocytes, some evidence of degeneration in tendon cells and disruption of collagen fibres, and subsequent increase in non-collagenous matrix. Tendinopathic tendons have an increased rate of matrix remodelling, leading to a mechanically less stable tendon which is more susceptible to damage. The diagnosis of Achilles tendinopathy is mainly based on a careful history and detailed clinical examination. The latter remains the best diagnostic tool. Over the past few years, various new therapeutic options have been proposed for the management of Achilles tendinopathy. Despite the morbidity associated with Achilles tendinopathy, many of the therapeutic options described and in common use are far from scientifically based. New minimally invasive techniques of stripping of neovessels from the Kager's triangle of the tendo Achillis have been described, and seem to allow faster recovery and accelerated return to sports, rather than open surgery. A genetic component has been implicated in tendinopathies of the Achilles tendon, but these studies are still at their infancy.