Author

Anna Murphy

Date of Award

5-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Gary Schindler

Keywords

Achilles tendon Rupture, Functional Rehabilitation, tourniquet-assisted blood flow restriction, strengthening protocol, ankle pain, ankle support

Abstract

Background and Purpose. Current literature identifies a lack of consensus regarding specific rehabilitation protocols following acute Achilles tendon ruptures. This case report highlights the rehabilitation of a patient following an Achilles rupture and surgical repair, who underwent a physical therapy treatment program, focusing on interventions to increase function, strength, and return to activity.

Description. The patient is a 64-year-old male, evaluated in the clinic four weeks following a status-post left Achilles tendon repair surgery, and presented with left ankle pain, decreased left ankle range of motion and decreased left ankle strength. The treatments and interventions used for this patient included Blood Flow Restriction training, interferential current electrical stimulation, ASTYM, and therapeutic exercise.

Outcomes. Following 9 weeks of Physical Therapy intervention, with five weeks devoted to Blood Flow Restriction and functional strength training, the patient demonstrated gaining 85% improvement in their ankle active range of motion, normal to good ankle strength, and decreased ankle pain. Patient was returning to prior level of function and performing activities such as hiking, golfing, and playing backyard football with the grandkids.

Discussion. Based on the results of this case, incorporating tourniquet-assisted blood flow restriction with functional rehabilitation programs may be a safe and effective protocol component to improve strength, endurance, and overall function after an Achilles tendon rupture

Download
COinS