Clinical Research Directory

Achilles Tendon Rupture Patient Outcomes at 12 Months

Sponsor: Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Summary

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and largest tendon in the human body, playing a critical role in plantarflexion and facilitating activities such as walking, running, and jumping. However, it is also the most frequently ruptured tendon. The injury and associated disability have a significant impact on patient quality of life and healthcare services. Achilles tendon ruptures are increasingly common, particularly among middle-aged recreational athletes, with an incidence estimated at 18 per 100,000 person-years. The Swansea Morriston Achilles Rupture Treatment (SMART) protocol represents a structured, progressive approach to non-operative rehabilitation. It emphasizes early mobilization, protected weight-bearing, and a gradual return to sport or high-level function through targeted strength and neuromuscular training. While short-term outcomes of non-surgical protocols have demonstrated promising results, there remains limited high-quality data on long-term isokinetic strength and patient-reported functional outcomes beyond six months in this patient group. This study aims to evaluate isokinetic plantarflexor strength and self-reported functional outcomes at 12 months following non-surgical management of Achilles tendon ruptures using the SMART rehabilitation protocol. By assessing both objective and subjective recovery metrics, we aim to contribute to the growing evidence base for evidence-informed, conservative Achilles tendon rehabilitation. A secondary aim of the study is to examine the relationship between isokinetic strength scores and self reported functional recovery scores using the ATRS questionnaire. Participants will attend one 60-90 minute visit to complete a short questionnaire and perform a safe, clinic-based ankle strength test using an isokinetic machine; the test feels like pushing against a footplate, similar to resisted ankle movements. The results of these tests will be collected and analysed. The study will help to gain further insight into patient recovery from this injury.

Official title: What Are the Isokinetic Strength Outcomes and Self-reported Functional Outcomes (ATRS) at 12 Months Following Non-surgical Management of Achilles Tendon Rupture Using the SMART Protocol?

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