Achilles SpeedBridge

See Achilles Tendinopathy under the ACHILLES & HEEL menu for more information before reading this page.

This surgical procedure is used to treat insertional Achilles tendinopathy with bony spurs that has not responded to at least six months of non-surgical treatment.

Surgery involves elevation of the Achilles from most of its insertion, removal of the spurs and degenerate tendon, then reattachment to the heel bone with strong sutures (Achilles SpeedBridge, see image).

This done through a 5 to 7 cm incision on the back of the heel.

Surgery:

usually an overnight stay in hospital
requires a general anaesthetic in most people
takes 45 minutes.

First 2 weeks:

bandage
"moon-boot" and crutches or frame
rest, elevation and ice (RICE)
ankle and foot movements
post-operative appointment.

Next 4 weeks:

"moon-boot" to stand and walk
RICE as needed.

Next 4 months:

physiotherapy-guided strengthening
exercise bike and pool exercises
return to sports specific training then sport.

Benefits and risks:

90% of people are helped by surgery
the size of the prominence is reduced
10% of people are not helped by surgery
1% of people are made worse by surgery.

Consequences and complications:

driving restrictions (2 to 8 weeks)
numbness around the heel is common
ache and swelling takes 6 months to settle
spurs can regrow over years
see General Information about Surgery.

IMPORTANT

If you have any questions about your planned procedure, contact Dr Beamond before the day of surgery.

The information on this page is of a general nature and does not replace the informed consent process. Other consequences and risks specific (material) to the individual must be discussed prior to surgery.