A Pilot Study on Exercise After Achilles Tendon Rupture

NEMEX-ATR: A Randomized Pilot Study on Early Neuromuscular Exercise in Non-surgically Treated Achilles Tendon Rupture

The purpose is to study the effect of early NEuroMuscular EXercise (NEMEX) versus conventional treatment (late exercise) in patients with acute non-operative achilles tendon rupture (ATR).

There is currently no consensus on treatment for achilles tendon rupture with regard to surgical or non-surgical treatment. In addition, the optimal time to start exercise treatment after the injury, with or without surgery, is not well understood. Animal studies show positive effects of early mobilization in tendon healing. Neuromuscular exercise has shown better effects than strength exercise in people with knee injury or knee disease. There are few studies in humans focusing on exercise as treatment, without surgical intervention, after ATR.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Men and women 18 - 60 years.
2. The patient should before the achilles tendon rupture have been able to walk independently without aid, walk without limping, run/jog and be able to jump on one leg
3. The patient shall be able to read, understand and to assimilate the written information about the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Previous achilles tendon rupture
2. Acute achilles tendon rupture, more than 5 days.
3. Medical restrictions regarding physical exercise, not related to the achilles tendon rupture