Achilles tendon rupture

NewsBot · Jul 25, 2026

Clinical Outcome of Isolated Endoscopic Flexor Hallucis Longus Transfer for Chronic Achilles Tendon Ruptures of Demanding Patients
António Serrano et al
Foot Ankle Spec. 2026 Jul 25:19386400261465108.

Background: Chronic rupture of the Achilles tendon, including neglected primary lesions and re-ruptures, remains a demanding clinical condition, particularly in active individuals. Endoscopic-assisted procedures with flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer have gained increasing popularity. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes of isolated endoscopic-assisted flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer in patients with high functional demands over an 11-year period.

Methods: This retrospective study included 35 patients (29 males, 6 females; mean age 48.3 ± 11.6 years) who underwent isolated endoscopic-assisted flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer for treatment of chronic rupture of the Achilles tendon between 2014 and 2024. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Score, the Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score, and the single-leg heel-rise test. The mean follow-up was 20.0 ± 11.3 months. Rates of return to sports, running and work were evaluated. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre and postoperative scores. The Spearman correlation coefficient was used to analyze the association between functional outcomes and both patient age and time from injury to surgery.

Results: Significant improvement was observed in functional scores: the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score increased from a median of 49 to 97, and the Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score from 18 to 95 (both P < .001). The heel-rise test was completed by 97.1% of patients. All previously active patients returned to sport, and 96.9% resumed work. Weak, nonsignificant negative correlations were observed between functional outcomes and both age and time to surgery. Three postoperative complications (8.6%) were observed.

Conclusions: Endoscopic-assisted flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer is an effective treatment option for chronic Achilles tendon ruptures in demanding patients. It provides excellent functional outcomes, a high rate of return to previous activity levels, and a low rate of complications.
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NewsBot · Jul 26, 2026

Analysis of Patient Factors That Predict Early
Restoration of Neutral Dorsiflexion After
Achilles Tendon Rupture
W. Chad Elliott,et al
Source

Background: Achilles Tendon Rupture (ATR) is a common musculoskeletal injury with an increasing incidence in the
United States. Early functional rehabilitation is a key component of improving patient outcomes, and restoration of
range of motion is a common threshold for progression to strengthening. Neutral ankle dorsiflexion represents an
important early milestone in ATR recovery. This study aimed to assess which patient factors were associated with
achieving this early rehabilitation milestone.
Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 70 patients who sustained ATR and were treated at an academic
center. Demographics, baseline characteristics, and common ATR risk factors were collected. The primary outcome
was whether patients achieved neutral ankle dorsiflexion at the six-week follow-up visit. Univariate analysis was
conducted to assess associations between risk factors, and multivariate analysis was subsequently performed for
variables of interest.
Results: There were 70 patients, with a mean age of 41.87 years ± 13.8 years; 56 were male (80%) and 14 were female
(20%). In univariate logistic regression, only operative management demonstrated a statistically significant association
with achieving the six-week clinical milestone of neutral dorsiflexion (Odds Ratio [OR]: 5.48, 95% Confidence Interval
[CI]: 1.51 – 22.01, P < 0.01). This association persisted after controlling for age, sex, and hypertensive status (OR: 5.48, 95%
CI: 1.66 – 19.9, P < 0.01).
Conclusion: Operative treatment of acute ATR was independently associated with earlier recovery of ankle dorsiflexion.
Achievement of early dorsiflexion was largely independent of most baseline patient characteristics. For patients who
prioritize early rehabilitation progression, operative management may offer a meaningful short-term advantage.
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NewsBot · Jul 27, 2026

Criteria for Return to Running After Surgical Repair of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Modified Delphi Consensus Study
Maxime Gaspar, Nicola Maffulli, Geoffrey Memain, Michael R. Carmont, Alexandre Hardy & Choplin Arnaud
Sports Medicine

Background
The annual incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures has increased by almost 3%. Despite the large amount of data available on post-injury treatment, there is a lack of evidence-based criteria to guide return to running after surgery.

Objective
The aim of this study was to reach a consensus among experts on the criteria for resuming running following surgery for Achilles tendon rupture.

Methods
Thirty-five international Achilles tendon experts were invited to participate in this modified Delphi study. The study was conducted in three rounds, with a threshold of 75% agreement (or disagreement) required for an item to achieve consensus. Sixteen clinical criteria were submitted to the expert panel. A five-point Likert scale was used. The study was conducted between January and June 2025.

Results
Eight criteria achieved consensus after three rounds: seven criteria reached consensus for inclusion, and one criterion reached consensus for exclusion (calf circumference symmetry). The seven criteria were (1) the absence of pain in daily life; (2) the absence of pain during and after rehabilitation sessions; (3) walking without limping; (4) the ability to walk on tiptoes; (5) the ability to perform ten single-leg heel rises; (6) good single-leg balance; and (7) the patient feeling psychologically ready to resume running.

Conclusion
An expert consensus on the criteria to return to running after surgery for Achilles tendon rupture has been developed. These criteria, agreed by experts, may inform clinical decision making regarding return to running, but they require prospective validation before they can be used as decision rules. Further studies are needed to refine these criteria and evaluate their impact on functional outcomes during the return-to-running phase.
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NewsBot · Aug 2, 2026

Ten-year follow-up of functional and biomechanical outcomes after open double-Tajima repair for acute Achilles tendon rupture in non-competitive adults
Ahmet Aybar , Kemal Gökkuş, Abdullah Şükün, Canan Gönen Aydın, Erdem Özden, Celal Bozkurt
Jt Dis Relat Surg. 2026 Jul 13;37(3):756-767.

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the clinical and objective biomechanical outcomes at a minimum 10-year follow-up following open double-Tajima repair combined with a structured functional loading protocol.

Patients and methods: Between January 2011 and December 2014, a total of 47 consecutive non-competitive adults (Tegner Activity Scale ≤ 4) with acute unilateral Achilles tendon rupture treated with open double-Tajima repair and an eight-week functional loading protocol were included in this retrospective cohort study. The primary outcome was the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score. Secondary outcomes included isokinetic dynamometry (peak torque at 30°/s and total work at 120°/s for plantar flexion and dorsiflexion), joint position sense, and ankle/calf circumference. Between-limb comparisons were performed.

Results: Of the patients, 35 were male and 12 were female with a mean age at the time of surgery of 36.7 ± 6.6 (range, 22 to 55) years. The mean follow-up was 132.4 ± 13.5 (range, 120 to 168) months. The rupture involved the dominant limb in 29 patients (61.7%) and the non-dominant limb in 18 patients (38.3%). The primary outcome (AOFAS score) showed no statistically significant between-limb difference: the median score was 91.0 (IQR, 91.0 to 93.0) on the operated limb versus 93.0 (IQR, 91.0 to 93.0) on the contralateral limb (median difference: 0.00 points; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.00 to 1.00; p = 0.92). No statistically significant between-limb differences were detected across the secondary outcomes, including peak torque at 30°/s, total work at 120°/s, joint position sense, and ankle/calf circumference (p ≥ 0.09 for all). The complication rate was 4.3% (2/47): one partial rerupture managed conservatively and one superficial wound infection treated with oral antibiotics. No complete reruptures were observed.

Conclusion: Open double-Tajima repair combined with a structured functional loading protocol seems to be associated with clinically acceptable long-term outcomes in this cohort of non-competitive adults. However, given the retrospective, single-cohort design without an independent comparison group or formal equivalence framework, these findings should be interpreted as descriptive long-term observations.
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NewsBot · Aug 2, 2026

Epidemiology of Achilles tendon ruptures in the United States: 2019 to 2024
Orett C. Burke Jr. et al
Source

Background

The Achilles tendon (AT) is the strongest tendon in the human body; however, the incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) continues to rise. This study aimed to update the epidemiology of ATRs in the United States from 2019 to 2024, with emphasis on demographic patterns and mechanisms of injury.
Methods

Patients presenting to the emergency department with ATRs from 2019 to 2024 were identified using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database. Demographic variables including age, sex, and race were extracted, and national incidence estimates were calculated. Injury mechanisms were analyzed overall and in subgroup analyses stratified by demographic characteristics.
Results

An estimated 31,549 ATRs occurred in the United States during the study period, with significant variation over time (p < 0.001). Males accounted for 86.31% of all ruptures (p < 0.001). The highest incidence occurred in the 20–39-year age group for both males and females, with incidence rates of 6.10 (95% CI, 6.01–6.19) and 0.89 (95% CI, 0.86–0.93) per 100,000 person-years, respectively. White (38.21%) and Black (29.28%) individuals comprised the largest proportion of reported cases. Basketball was the most common sport leading to ATRs for men, ages <60 years, and most races included in this study.
Conclusion

Young male patients (20 to 39-years-old) who participate in recreational sports continue to be at the highest risk for ATRs. Basketball was associated with most of the ATRs for males and individuals between ages <60 years, while ball sports/other (ie, pickleball, etc.) was popular among individuals 60+ years and females. The results of this study emphasize the need for raising awareness among high-risk individuals to promote injury prevention
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NewsBot · Aug 2, 2026

Short-Term Workload Patterns Before Achilles Tendon Rupture in National Basketball Association Players: A Descriptive Epidemiology Study
Vineet Kumar et al
Source

Background:
Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is one of the most serious injuries in professional basketball, requiring nearly a year of recovery and resulting in declines in player performance and career longevity. In the 2024-2025 NBA season, a record-high 7 ATRs highlighted the need to evaluate workload-related risk factors.
Hypothesis:
NBA players experiencing ATR may have a higher-than-average workload in games preceding injury, which could be associated with increased risk.
Study Design:
Descriptive epidemiology study.
Methods:
This retrospective exploratory review analyzed publicly available NBA data from the 2014-2015 to 2024-2025 seasons. Inclusion required players to have sustained a basketball-related ATR during a regular season or playoff game after participating in at least 1 full game that season. Variables included age, position, specialization, meters run, minutes played (5-, 10-, 15-game spans before ATR), games played, and scheduling metrics (back-to-backs, rest days). Data sources included official NBA statistics, StatMuse, and ESPN. Statistical analyses included paired and unpaired t tests, 1-way analysis of variance, and Spearman correlations.
Results:
Nineteen players (19 ATRs; mean age, 27.8 ± 3.2 years; mean league experience: 7.4 ± 3.2 years) sustained basketball-related ATRs. Playing time was significantly higher in the 10 games (29.0 ± 2.1 vs 27.4 ± 2.0 min/game; P = .01) and 15 games (28.6 ± 2.1 vs 27.4 ± 2.0 min/game; P = .03) preceding injury compared with each player’s season average. Years of league experience were positively correlated with workload measures, including total season minutes (P = .02) and minutes in the 5 games preceding rupture (P = .0498), such that veteran players generally accumulated higher workload, whereas ATRs among less-experienced players occurred in the setting of comparatively lower observed workload.
Conclusion:
Significant workload spikes were found in the 10 to 15 games preceding Achilles ruptures for NBA players. Veteran players carried heavier cumulative workloads, whereas younger players ruptured tendons under lighter use. Proactive workload management, athlete education, and targeted prevention strategies may help preserve player health and career longevity in the NBA.
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NewsBot · Aug 2, 2026

Criteria for Return to Running After Surgical Repair of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Modified Delphi Consensus Study
Maxime Gaspar, Nicola Maffulli, Geoffrey Memain, Michael R. Carmont, Alexandre Hardy & Choplin Arnaud
Sports Medicine

Background

The annual incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures has increased by almost 3%. Despite the large amount of data available on post-injury treatment, there is a lack of evidence-based criteria to guide return to running after surgery.
Objective

The aim of this study was to reach a consensus among experts on the criteria for resuming running following surgery for Achilles tendon rupture.
Methods

Thirty-five international Achilles tendon experts were invited to participate in this modified Delphi study. The study was conducted in three rounds, with a threshold of 75% agreement (or disagreement) required for an item to achieve consensus. Sixteen clinical criteria were submitted to the expert panel. A five-point Likert scale was used. The study was conducted between January and June 2025.
Results

Eight criteria achieved consensus after three rounds: seven criteria reached consensus for inclusion, and one criterion reached consensus for exclusion (calf circumference symmetry). The seven criteria were (1) the absence of pain in daily life; (2) the absence of pain during and after rehabilitation sessions; (3) walking without limping; (4) the ability to walk on tiptoes; (5) the ability to perform ten single-leg heel rises; (6) good single-leg balance; and (7) the patient feeling psychologically ready to resume running.
Conclusion

An expert consensus on the criteria to return to running after surgery for Achilles tendon rupture has been developed. These criteria, agreed by experts, may inform clinical decision making regarding return to running, but they require prospective validation before they can be used as decision rules. Further studies are needed to refine these criteria and evaluate their impact on functional outcomes during the return-to-running phase.
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NewsBot · Aug 4, 2026

MRI-based classification system may predict location of Achilles tendon injuries

NewsBot · Aug 11, 2026

Achilles Tendon Rupture Repaired With TeKBrace Augmentation: A Case Report
Stephen Arndt
Foot Ankle Spec. 2026 Aug 11:19386400261476784.

Achilles tendon rupture is a common injury among active adults and frequently requires surgical repair in high-demand patients. Augmentation techniques have been developed to improve repair strength and reduce re-rupture risk, particularly in cases of degenerative tendon tissue. TeKBrace, a woven polyester mesh, provides mechanical reinforcement while allowing biologic integration. We present the case of a 36-year-old recreational athlete who underwent open Achilles tendon repair with TeKBrace augmentation following an acute rupture. Intraoperative findings of degenerative tendon tissue and mild gapping under tension supported the decision to augment the repair. At 6 months, the patient demonstrated symmetric ankle range of motion and approximately 90% restoration of plantarflexion strength compared with the contralateral limb. The patient demonstrated excellent functional recovery and returned to recreational basketball without pain or limitation at 9 months, and no complications or re-rupture were observed. This case highlights the biomechanical rationale and clinical utility of TeKBrace scaffold augmentation in selected patients, although larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to better define its clinical effectiveness.
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NewsBot · Aug 14, 2026

Acceleration and Injury-Frame Biomechanics in Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Systematic Review
Robert Olivar and Eleftherios Kellis
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2026, 11(3), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk11030309

Background and Objectives: Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) incidence has increased across sport populations, and, given its impact on elite performance, the purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize the available video analysis evidence describing the biomechanics of ATR in sport. Methods: Four databases were searched to June 2026 for video analysis studies reporting the mechanics of ATR in athletes. Eleven studies (2019–2026) reporting overlapping samples of ATR events in professional basketball, soccer, and American football were included and synthesized at the study level to avoid double counting. Study quality was appraised using the QA-SIVAS scale. Results: Non-contact mechanisms predominated in all studies reporting injury dynamics (64–100%). Acceleration from a stationary or near-stationary position was the most common movement context, with the “false step” frequently described as a recurrent initiating action rather than a singular cause. Ankle dorsiflexion at the injury frame was present across all studies (25.3–47.9°). A recurrent injury-frame configuration was observed, comprising trunk flexion, hip extension, knee extension or early flexion, ankle dorsiflexion, and a flat foot, reached through a progression from initial contact. Conclusions: ATR was predominantly a non-contact injury, most often during acceleration from a near-stationary position, reaching a broadly convergent injury-frame configuration. A rearward preparatory step recurred across studies and movement categories, but inconsistent definitions and incomplete reporting mean its overall frequency cannot be established. It remains a candidate movement feature for controlled biomechanical investigation, and future work should compare successful and injurious steps within athletes.
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NewsBot · Aug 16, 2026

Ten-year follow-up of functional and biomechanical outcomes after open double-Tajima repair for acute Achilles tendon rupture in non-competitive adults
Ahmet Aybar et al
Jt Dis Relat Surg. 2026 Jul 13;37(3):756-767.

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the clinical and objective biomechanical outcomes at a minimum 10-year follow-up following open double-Tajima repair combined with a structured functional loading protocol.

Patients and methods: Between January 2011 and December 2014, a total of 47 consecutive non-competitive adults (Tegner Activity Scale ≤ 4) with acute unilateral Achilles tendon rupture treated with open double-Tajima repair and an eight-week functional loading protocol were included in this retrospective cohort study. The primary outcome was the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score. Secondary outcomes included isokinetic dynamometry (peak torque at 30°/s and total work at 120°/s for plantar flexion and dorsiflexion), joint position sense, and ankle/calf circumference. Between-limb comparisons were performed.

Results: Of the patients, 35 were male and 12 were female with a mean age at the time of surgery of 36.7 ± 6.6 (range, 22 to 55) years. The mean follow-up was 132.4 ± 13.5 (range, 120 to 168) months. The rupture involved the dominant limb in 29 patients (61.7%) and the non-dominant limb in 18 patients (38.3%). The primary outcome (AOFAS score) showed no statistically significant between-limb difference: the median score was 91.0 (IQR, 91.0 to 93.0) on the operated limb versus 93.0 (IQR, 91.0 to 93.0) on the contralateral limb (median difference: 0.00 points; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.00 to 1.00; p = 0.92). No statistically significant between-limb differences were detected across the secondary outcomes, including peak torque at 30°/s, total work at 120°/s, joint position sense, and ankle/calf circumference (p ≥ 0.09 for all). The complication rate was 4.3% (2/47): one partial rerupture managed conservatively and one superficial wound infection treated with oral antibiotics. No complete reruptures were observed.

Conclusion: Open double-Tajima repair combined with a structured functional loading protocol seems to be associated with clinically acceptable long-term outcomes in this cohort of non-competitive adults. However, given the retrospective, single-cohort design without an independent comparison group or formal equivalence framework, these findings should be interpreted as descriptive long-term observations.
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NewsBot · Aug 28, 2026

Development and Internal Validation of a Nomogram for Predicting Acute Moderate-to-
Severe Postoperative Pain After Achilles Tendon Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study,
Wenwen Zhai, Zhuoying Yu, Ning Wang, Jiahong Zhou, Yanhan Lv & Min Li
Journal of Pain Research

Background: Acute moderate-to-severe postoperative pain is common after Achilles tendon surgery and may hinder early mobiliza-
tion and the implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols. This study aimed to develop and internally
validate a perioperative nomogram for predicting acute moderate-to-severe pain within the first 24 hours after Achilles tendon surgery
using routinely available clinical variables.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 489 patients who underwent Achilles tendon surgery at a single center. Demographic,
surgical, and perioperative analgesic data were extracted from electronic medical records. The primary outcome was moderate-to-
severe postoperative pain, defined as any Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score ≥ 4 within the first 24 postoperative hours.
Candidate predictors were screened using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression, followed by
multivariable logistic regression to construct a parsimonious predictive model. The model was intended for perioperative use at
or near the end of surgery, when the surgical approach and peripheral nerve block status are known. Model performance was
evaluated using the Area Under the Curve (AUC), calibration plots, bootstrap internal validation, temporal split validation, and
Decision Curve Analysis (DCA).
Results: Among the 489 patients, 208 (42.5%) experienced moderate-to-severe postoperative pain. The final model included open
surgery (OR 4.457, 95% CI 2.109–9.417), higher BMI (OR 1.059 per 1 kg/m2, 95% CI 1.006–1.115), and no peripheral nerve block
(OR 2.022, 95% CI 1.369–2.988). The apparent C-statistic was 0.652 (95% CI 0.603–0.700), and the bootstrap-corrected C-statistic
was 0.648. Calibration was acceptable (optimism-corrected calibration slope 0.950; optimism-corrected calibration intercept −0.017;
Hosmer-Lemeshow P = 0.162). In temporal split validation, the model achieved an AUC of 0.634 (95% CI 0.565–0.703). Decision
curve analysis suggested potential net benefit across threshold probabilities from 0.11 to 0.56.
Conclusion: Open surgery and higher BMI were associated with increased odds of acute moderate-to-severe postoperative pain,
whereas perioperative peripheral nerve block was associated with lower odds. The proposed 3-variable nomogram showed modest
discrimination and acceptable internal calibration. It may serve as an adjunctive tool for perioperative risk stratification, but external
validation and prospective evaluation are required before routine clinical use.
Plain Language Summary: Pain after Achilles tendon surgery can make early recovery and rehabilitation more difficult. In this
study of 489 patients, we found that three simple factors–undergoing open rather than arthroscopic surgery, having a higher Body Mass
Index (BMI), and not receiving a peripheral nerve block–were each associated with a higher chance of moderate-to-severe pain in the
first 24 hours after surgery. We combined these three factors into an easy-to-use scoring chart (nomogram) that may help clinicians
identify higher-risk patients perioperatively and consider closer monitoring and multimodal pain-control strategies after surgery.
Because this chart was tested only using data from our own hospital, it needs to be checked in other hospitals before routine use.
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NewsBot · Sep 3, 2026

Rising Achilles Tendon Ruptures in the NBA: The Role Of Playing Time And Experience
Vineet S. Kumar, Luke L. Sang, […], and Nirav K. Pandya, MD
Source

Objective:
Achilles tendon ruptures (ATR) have long been a serious concern in the National Basketball Association (NBA), with an average of 1.36 cases per season from 1990 to 2023. Alarmingly, the 2024-2025 season saw a sharp rise to seven ATRs, the highest ever recorded in a single season. ATRs are considered one of the most debilitating soft tissue injuries in basketball, often requiring close to a year of recovery and frequently resulting in long-term declines in athletic performance. Beyond the physical challenges, players must also overcome significant psychological hurdles, including loss of confidence, fear of re-injury, and difficulty regaining pre-injury form. These consequences not only impact individual careers but also have major implications for team performance and roster stability. Identifying specific risk factors and workload patterns leading up to ATRs is therefore critical for developing strategies aimed at prevention and player health optimization. The objective of this study was to evaluate the characteristics, workload trends, and contextual factors surrounding NBA players who sustained ATRs. We hypothesized that players who suffered ATRs would demonstrate measurable increases in workload in the games leading up to injury, as well as identifiable patterns in schedule congestion and player usage, compared to their typical season averages.
Methods:
This was a retrospective review of publicly available NBA data from the 2014-2015 through the 2024-2025 seasons. Players were included if they sustained a basketball-related Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) during the regular season or playoffs after participating in at least one game that year. A total of 25 players were identified, six were excluded due to non-basketball or off-season injuries, leaving 19 cases for final analysis. Collected variables included player age, position (Guard, Forward, Center, Combo), role (starter vs bench), early sport specialization status (single- vs multi-sport participation in high school), games played in the 30 days preceding injury, number of back-to-back games (no rest day between two separate games), total rest days, and workload measures. Workload measures included meters run in the injured season versus career averages, total meters run in the injured season versus total career totals, and minutes played across 5-, 10-, and 15-game spans before injury. Workload and performance data were obtained from NBA Advanced Stats and StatMuse. Information on background and multisport participation was collected from ESPN, player interviews, publicly available biographies, and high school sports records. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.
Results:
19 athletes were included in this study. There were no significant differences in age at time of ATR or schedule congestion metrics when stratified by player position (G vs F vs C vs Combo), role (Starter vs Bench), or early sports specialization status (Single vs Multi-Sport). There was a significant spike in minutes played observed in the 10 and 15 games preceding the Achilles rupture (p < 0.01, p <0.03) for all players. Additionally, a positive correlation was found between years of NBA experience and total minutes played in the injury season (p < 0.02, r = 0.53), suggesting that more veteran players tended to carry heavier workloads at the time of injury compared to their younger counterparts.
Conclusions:
Achilles tendon ruptures (ATRs) reached a record high in the 2024-2025 NBA season. In this retrospective study of 19 cases, players demonstrated significant increases in minutes played in the 10-15 games preceding injury, with veteran players carrying greater workloads in their injury season. No significant associations were identified with player position, early sport specialization, or schedule congestion. These findings emphasize the importance of proactive workload management and maintaining consistency in player usage to reduce rupture risk. Although limited by sample size and, this study highlights actionable recommendations for player health and team management. Larger and future longitudinal studies using advanced workload metrics may further clarify risk patterns and guide evidence-based strategies to protect the long-term health and careers of NBA athletes.
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NewsBot · Sep 5, 2026 at 12:48 AM

Effects of fatigue are more pronounced on the uninjured side during single-limb jumps 2 years after an acute Achilles tendon rupture
Unnur Sædís Jónsdóttir et al
Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2026 Aug 21.

Purpose: Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) is a serious lower limb injury that may result in persistent deficits in strength and endurance of the calf muscles. Compensatory mechanisms at proximal joints are known, but the effects of fatigue are less studied. The aim was therefore to evaluate the effect of a fatigue protocol on lower limb kinetics during performance of single-limb drop countermovement jumps (CMJ) in individuals with a history of a unilateral ATR.

Methods: Thirty participants were recruited on average 2 years after ATR. Drop CMJs were performed on each side before and after a fatigue protocol, and peak power values for the hip, knee and ankle joints were calculated, as well as jump height and duration. A mixed model analysis of variance was used to evaluate inter-limb differences pre- and post-fatigue during the landing (eccentric) and push-off (concentric) phases of the involved (INV) and uninvolved (UNinv) side.

Results: The fatigue protocol had a greater effect on peak ankle joint power of the UNinv side across both phases (by a mean [95% confidence interval, CI] of 1.06 [0.58-1.54] W/kg) compared to the INV side (0.51 [0.03-1.00] W/kg; p = 0.039). Moreover, greater fatigue-induced changes in ankle joint power were found during landing (by a mean [95% CI] of 1.13 [0.64-1.61] W/kg) compared to push-off (0.45 [0.04-0.93] W/kg; p = 0.011), across both sides. A trend towards increased knee joint power was seen as a response to fatigue across both sides and phases (p = 0.062), with no change at the hip.

Conclusions: Rehabilitation following ATR should emphasize progressive reliance on the INV side across the rehabilitation continuum by incorporating strength, endurance and training under fatigued conditions. This approach may help reduce compensatory reliance on the UNinv side, potentially lowering the risk of overuse‑related injuries.
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NewsBot · Sep 5, 2026 at 2:43 AM

Telerobotic ultrasound assessment of acute sport-related Achilles tendon ruptures and gastrocnemius muscle tears: a clinical feasibility study
Huanyan Liu et al
Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport

Objectives
To evaluate the clinical feasibility of telerobotic ultrasound for assessing acute sport-related Achilles tendon ruptures and gastrocnemius muscle tears.
Design
A prospective controlled study.
Methods
Patients with suspected acute sport-related Achilles tendon rupture or gastrocnemius muscle tear and healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. All participants underwent both conventional handheld ultrasound and telerobotic ultrasound examinations of the Achilles tendon and gastrocnemius muscle. The two examination methods were compared in terms of their scanning safety, examination duration, and image quality. Physicians and participants were also surveyed regarding their experience with the telerobotic ultrasound system.
Results
Of the 61 participants, 12 had acute sport-related injuries, and 49 were healthy controls. Both ultrasound modalities identified the same 12 positive cases. Magnetic resonance imaging served as the diagnostic reference standard. The telerobotic ultrasound took significantly longer than the handheld ultrasound (10.03 ± 2.05 min vs 4.59 ± 0.67 min; t = − 19.724, p < 0.001). The inter-rater concordance rate for the image quality scores was 88.7% (κ = 0.384; 95% CI, 0.289–0.472; p < 0.001). The concordance rate between the two imaging modalities was 84.4% (κ = 0.148; 95% CI, 0.060–0.232; p < 0.001). Among the participants, 70.5% (43/61) reported high satisfaction with the telerobotic ultrasound examination. Furthermore, the tele-doctor reported a willingness to use the telerobotic ultrasound as a routine procedure in 91.8% (56/61) of the examinations.
Conclusions
This study preliminarily demonstrates the clinical feasibility of telerobotic ultrasound for evaluating acute sport-related Achilles tendon ruptures and gastrocnemius muscle tears.
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NewsBot · Sep 7, 2026 at 10:07 PM

Endoscopic Peroneus Longus Transfer for Chronic Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Novel Surgical Technique
Ahmed Saleh et al
Foot Ankle Spec. 2026 Aug 21:19386400261475902.

BackgroundChronic Achilles tendon rupture (CATR) is a debilitating condition affecting activities such as walking and jumping. Surgical reconstruction remains preferred for larger defects, with local tendon transfers including the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) and peroneus brevis (PB). However, these techniques carry risks of donor-site morbidity and neurovascular injury, particularly in high-risk patients.ObjectivesThis article describes a novel minimally invasive endoscopic technique and reports 3 cases of CATR reconstruction using peroneus longus (PL) tendon transfer as an alternative.MethodsThis technique employs standard posterolateral and posteromedial hindfoot portals without requiring additional peroneal tendoscopy portals. A small incision is made near the calcaneocuboid joint to perform tenodesis between PB and PL tendons, with the foot in maximum eversion to maximize tendon harvest. The PL tendon is then pulled through the posterolateral portal with the aid of the tag sutures, then passed through a calcaneal tunnel, and secured using an interference screw under fluoroscopic guidance.ResultsThe procedure was performed in 3 patients with complete CATR (2 insertional, 1 noninsertional). At 1-year follow-up, all patients demonstrated clinical improvement in American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) and Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) measurements, with no gross clinical weakness in ankle eversion or lateral instability. One patient developed localized plantar heel hypoesthesia, while no major neurovascular complications or lateral ankle instability were observed.ConclusionEndoscopic PL transfer was feasible in 3 patients with CATR and was associated with improved short-term clinical scores. This technique may be considered a potential alternative or salvage option when FHL transfer is unsuitable. However, larger comparative studies are needed before definitive conclusions can be made regarding this technique
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NewsBot · Sep 9, 2026 at 1:40 AM

Timing of Achilles Tendon Revision within 2 Months of Primary Repair Affects Incidence of Acute Complications
Rachel E. Cherelstein et al
Source

Background:
Early revision of primary Achilles tendon repair is sometimes necessary, and the Achilles tendon’s inherent hypovascularity creates a uniquely challenging biological environment for reoperation. However, the optimal timing for revision and its associated complication risks remain poorly characterized.
Purpose:
To evaluate the relationship between the timing of early Achilles tendon revision, performed within 8 weeks of primary repair, and the incidence of acute postoperative complications.
Methods:
Using the PearlDiver M91Ortho data set, patients who underwent Achilles tendon revision 0 to 8 weeks after primary Achilles tendon repair and did not have a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus were stratified into groups based on the interval between operations: 0 to 2 weeks, 2 to 4 weeks, 4 to 6 weeks, and 6 to 8 weeks. The rates of complications, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, superficial and deep surgical-site infection (SSI), wound dehiscence, debridement, and complex regional pain syndrome, were identified. Complication rates across timing groups were compared using chi-square tests and Fisher’s exact tests with Bonferroni correction for pairwise analyses.
Results:
Among 759 patients, sex and age distributions did not differ significantly across timing groups. Overall complication rates varied significantly by revision interval, as did wound dehiscence and deep SSI. Superficial SSI occurred only in the 2-to 4-week group. The post hoc testing showed significantly higher overall complication rates for the 2- to 4-week and 4- to 6-week groups compared with the 0- to 2-week and 6- to 8-week groups. Wound dehiscence was more frequent in the 2- to 4-week and 4- to 6-week groups compared with the 0- to 2-week group. Deep SSI occurred more often in the 2- to 4-week and 4- to 6-week groups compared with the 6- to 8-week group
Conclusion:
Revision occurring at 2-6 weeks after primary Achilles tendon repair is associated with a significantly higher risk of complications compared with revisions within 0-2 weeks or at 6-8 weeks, thereby suggesting an optimal revision-timing window to mitigate adverse outcomes.
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Achilles tendon rupture

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Achilles tendon rupture

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Depression folowing surgery for an achilles tendon rupture

Are bacteria involved in achilles tendon ruptures?

Past ruptured achilles tendon

Achilles Tendon rupture and Plantar Fasciitis

Achilles Tendonitis Relief From Heel Lifts

Relief and Recovery: How Atlas Biomechanics Cork Heel Lifts Treat Achilles Tendonitis

Testosterone replacement therapy is associated with increased odds of Achilles tendon injury

Share This Page

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