Our Summary

This research paper is about the best ways to help patients recover after surgery for a ruptured Achilles tendon. The researchers tested three different post-surgery treatments on mice: a group that did no exercise, a group that did static stretching, and a group that had electric muscle stimulation. They found that the electric muscle stimulation helped the tendon heal faster and the muscles regain their strength quicker than the static stretching. In fact, the static stretching didn’t seem to do anything more than no exercise at all. The researchers concluded that making the calf muscle contract (like it does during the electric muscle stimulation) is crucial for helping the tendon heal and the muscle regain its function after surgery. The researchers suggest that more studies are needed to figure out the best way to make the muscles contract after this type of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What were the three post-surgery treatments tested on mice for Achilles tendon repair?
  2. Which post-surgery treatment was found to help the tendon heal faster and the muscles regain strength quicker?
  3. What is the suggested next step in research based on the study’s findings?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tendon repair is to engage in activities or treatments that promote muscle contraction, such as electric muscle stimulation, to aid in the healing process and regain muscle strength. Static stretching alone may not be as effective in promoting tendon healing and muscle recovery. It is important to follow the recommended post-surgery treatment plan to optimize the healing process and improve overall outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who have undergone tendon repair surgery, such as for a ruptured Achilles tendon, are typically recommended post-surgery treatments to help with their recovery. These patients may include:

  1. Athletes: Athletes who have suffered a tendon injury, such as a torn Achilles tendon, may undergo tendon repair surgery to regain their ability to participate in sports and physical activities.

  2. Active individuals: Individuals who lead active lifestyles and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or playing sports may require tendon repair surgery to restore their mobility and function.

  3. Older adults: Older adults who have experienced a tendon injury, such as a torn rotator cuff, may undergo tendon repair surgery to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence.

  4. Individuals with chronic tendon issues: Patients with chronic tendon issues, such as tendinitis or tendinosis, may require tendon repair surgery to alleviate pain and improve their overall function.

Overall, patients recommended for tendon repair surgery are those who have suffered a significant tendon injury that requires surgical intervention to restore function, mobility, and quality of life.

Timeline

Before tendon repair:

  1. Patient experiences pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected area.
  2. Patient may undergo imaging tests like MRI to diagnose the extent of the tendon injury.
  3. Patient consults with a orthopedic surgeon to discuss treatment options, which may include tendon repair surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes tendon repair surgery, which involves reattaching the torn tendon to the bone.

After tendon repair:

  1. In the immediate post-operative period, patient will be given pain medication and instructions on wound care.
  2. Patient will begin physical therapy to gradually regain strength and mobility in the affected area.
  3. Patient may experience stiffness and weakness in the repaired tendon and surrounding muscles.
  4. Depending on the type of surgery, patient may be immobilized in a cast or brace for a period of time.
  5. Patient will gradually increase activity levels and return to normal daily activities.
  6. Patient will continue physical therapy to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the repaired tendon.
  7. Patient will undergo follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  8. With proper rehabilitation and adherence to post-operative instructions, patient can expect to regain full function of the repaired tendon.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of tendon repair surgery will I be undergoing?
  2. What is the expected recovery time for this type of surgery?
  3. What post-surgery treatments or exercises do you recommend for optimal recovery?
  4. What are the potential risks or complications associated with tendon repair surgery?
  5. Will physical therapy be necessary after surgery, and if so, what does that entail?
  6. How can I manage pain and discomfort during the recovery process?
  7. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make to support the healing process?
  8. What signs or symptoms should I look out for that may indicate a problem with the healing process?
  9. How soon can I expect to regain full functionality and range of motion in the affected tendon?
  10. Are there any specific precautions I should take to prevent re-injury to the tendon in the future?

Reference

Authors: Yoneno M, Minegishi Y, Takahashi H, Takahata K, Miyamoto H, Usami Y, Kokubun T. Journal: J Orthop Res. 2025 Apr;43(4):746-755. doi: 10.1002/jor.26044. Epub 2025 Jan 12. PMID: 39800991