Treatment of Ruptured Gastrocnemius Tendon

Conservative Management

Protected weight bearing should begin within 2 weeks to prevent complications and promote healing in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 1
Cryotherapy applied through a wet towel for 10-minute periods provides acute pain relief for patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 2
Relative rest of the affected area is essential to prevent further damage while promoting healing in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 2
A protective device limiting dorsiflexion should be used to protect the healing tissue in the early phase of rehabilitation 1
Begin mobilization by 2-4 weeks using a protective device that prevents excessive stretch in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 1, 3
NSAIDs (topical or systemic) are effective for short-term pain relief, with topical formulations having fewer systemic side effects in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 2

Eccentric strengthening exercises should be implemented as they are effective for treatment and may reverse degenerative changes in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 2
Most patients with tendon injuries fully recover within three to six months 2
Patient adherence to the prescribed protocol is crucial to prevent complications and ensure optimal healing in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 1, 3
Non-compliance with protective devices significantly increases rerupture risk in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 4
Deep vein thrombosis requires monitoring in all patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon, regardless of treatment approach 1, 3
By 12 months, outcomes such as pain and function are similar between different treatment protocols when properly executed in patients with ruptured gastrocnemius tendon 1