The Achilles tendon is a large tendon connecting your calf muscle to your ankle. Athletes and active individuals are prone to injuries of the Achilles tendon, but they can happen to anyone. A ruptured Achilles tendon is a serious injury, which requires prompt treatment. It can lead to significant and permanent pain and restrictions, particularly if not treated correctly.
A healthcare professional may breach their duty of care in several ways when investigating or treating ruptured Achilles tendon injuries in the following ways.
Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis:
A failure to correctly diagnose an Achilles tendon injury can lead to delayed or inappropriate treatment. For example, mistaking a tendon rupture for a less severe strain can delay treatment to such an extent that surgery is required, when it may not have been with prompt diagnosis and immobilisation.
Inadequate Examination:
A failure to perform an adequate physical examination, including specific tests such as the Simmonds calf squeeze test, can result in delayed diagnosis and delayed treatment.
Improper Treatment:
Incorrect treatment, such as inappropriately angled immobilisation can hinder recovery and lead to a failure of the tendon to heal conservatively and can lead to complex surgery being required.
Treatment of a Ruptured Achilles Tendon
Once a ruptured Achilles tendon is diagnosed, prompt and appropriate treatment is vital to give the patient the best possible chance of a full recovery. Early intervention can significantly impact the outcome, helping to restore mobility, strength, and function in the affected leg.
In cases where the rupture is identified quickly—typically within the first few days—conservative (non-surgical) treatment may be a suitable option. This approach involves immobilising the lower leg in a specially angled position, often using a plaster cast or a walking boot with the foot pointing slightly downward. This position encourages the torn ends of the tendon to come into close contact, promoting natural healing and the formation of scar tissue to bridge the rupture.
The conservative method can be effective for certain patients, particularly those who are less active or have health conditions that may make surgery riskier. Over time, the angle of immobilisation is gradually adjusted to return the foot to a neutral position, and once healing has progressed, a structured physiotherapy programme is usually introduced to rebuild strength, flexibility, and function in the tendon.
However, it is important to note that treatment decisions are based on several factors, including the patient’s age, activity level, general health, and the severity of the tear. In some cases, particularly where the rupture is complete or the patient leads a very active lifestyle, surgical repair may be recommended to improve long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of re-rupture.
Regardless of the chosen treatment path, early diagnosis and specialist care are essential to minimise complications and optimise recovery.
Consequences of a delayed diagnosis
A delay in the diagnosis of a ruptured Achilles tendon can mean that it is too late for conservative treatment, and a patient will likely require tendon graft surgery. This involves taking part of a tendon from another part of the body and inserting it between the ruptured tendon, to act as a type of bridge between the unattached tendon edges.
This is complex surgery and whilst patients can have good surgical outcomes, they are often left with permanent restrictions, weakness and reduced movement.
The consequences upon a person’s every day life of the ongoing disabilities can be significant, and can lead to them being unable to run or walk up stairs or ladders. This in turn can have a massive emotional and psychological impact, and can cause difficulties in work and lead to financial hardship.
How can we help?
If you have suffered a delayed diagnosis of a ruptured Achilles tendon, then we may be able to assist you with a clinical negligence claim to seek the compensation you deserve. Our specialist team is well placed to advise you on your potential claim.
Get in touch with our friendly team today on 01244 354688.
