Walking Again After Achilles Tendon Surgery: How Long Does It Take?

Having Achilles tendon surgery is a big deal. It’s not just your foot, it’s your balance, your steps, your daily life. One of the first things people ask me after surgery is, “When will I be walking again?” That’s the big question. Most patients start walking again after achilles tendon surgery (carefully) in 4 to 8 weeks.

Let’s talk more about walking after Achilles tendon surgery, and how long it takes, and how to make sure your recovery goes smoothly.

Can You Walk after Achilles Tendon Surgery?

Yes, people do walk again after Achilles tendon surgery. But it doesn’t happen right away. Most patients start walking again after achilles tendon surgery (carefully) in 4 to 8 weeks, and return to normal walking between 4 to 6 months. Some may take longer depending on age, injury, or how well they follow rehab.

How Long to Walk after Achilles Tendon Surgery?

Healing happens in stages. You don’t just wake up one day and start walking again after Achilles tendon surgery. Here’s what foot doctors Mesa say about the timeline for most people recovering from Achilles surgery.

0–2 Weeks After Surgery

In the first two weeks after surgery, you’ll have a splint or cast that holds your foot pointed downward to take pressure off the tendon. During this time, there’s no walking at all and absolutely no weight on the foot. You’ll need crutches or a scooter to get around.

Your job right now:

• Rest, keep the foot elevated, take meds if needed, and let the swelling go down.
• You can move your toes and do small leg lifts while lying down, but nothing that moves the ankle.

2–6 Weeks After Surgery

This is the time when walking again after Achilles tendon surgery starts, but very slowly:

• Your splint or cast will be changed to a walking boot. It will have heel wedges to keep your foot in the right position.
• You may be allowed to put a little weight on the foot with crutches.
• You still need support (crutches or a walker) when walking.
• Start rehab exercises like ankle pumps, towel curls, and toe movements.
• Still no barefoot walking, no stairs, and no pushing through pain.

6–8 Weeks After Surgery

Around 6–8 weeks after surgery, most people can put full weight on the foot while wearing the boot. Crutches are usually no longer needed. You can walk indoors and move around more easily.

Your rehab focuses on calf raises, balance work, and ankle mobility exercises like writing the alphabet with your foot. Avoid running, jumping, or long walks; your tendon is still healing.

Here’s what you can do in a nutshell:

8–12 Weeks After Surgery

This is a big step forward. The walking boot comes off slowly. You may wear a sneaker with a small heel lift to ease pressure. You’ll also start walking indoors, on flat surfaces only, for short distances.

Rehab includes:

• Calf stretching
• Side-to-side balance drills
• Step-ups
• Short treadmill walks (if approved)

However, your steps may still feel stiff, and that’s normal. You’re not fully back yet—but you’re close.

12–16 Weeks After Surgery

At this point, you’re really walking again after Achilles tendon surgery. Most people can walk normally in shoes without help. You’ll also feel stronger, but the calf might still feel weaker than the other side.

Rehab is more advanced now:

• Single-leg balance
• Gentle squats
• Elliptical or light biking

However, still no running or quick side movements. The tendon is healing but not full-strength.

4–6 Months After Surgery

By 4 to 6 months after surgery, you’re walking with more confidence. Swelling has decreased, pain is mostly gone, and you can walk longer distances. Some stiffness may still show up in the morning or after sitting. Strengthening exercises are now a regular part of your routine to rebuild full function.

6–12 Months After Surgery

Between 6 to 12 months after surgery, most patients return to normal walking without a limp. Some may continue physical therapy to rebuild strength, especially older adults or athletes. By this stage, walking on stairs, uneven ground, and during daily activities should feel stable and safe.

How to Avoid Re-Rupture?

A re-tear is the thing we want to avoid most. It sets you back months and may require another surgery. Here’s how to lower your risk:

• Always wear your boot or brace as instructed.
• Don’t walk barefoot early in recovery.
• Keep weight off your foot until your doctor says it’s okay.
• Avoid jumping, running, or sudden steps.
• Use a handrail on stairs, even if you feel fine.
• Don’t overstretch your calf early in healing.
• Do all the home exercises your therapist gives you.
• Be patient!

When Can You Return to Sport after Achilles Tendon Surgery?

Most people go back to sports between 6 to 9 months after surgery. Some need a full year. It depends on your strength, balance, and confidence in the foot. Before you’re cleared to return, your foot doctor Phoenix, or therapist will test things like your ability to hop, push off, and land safely. Sports like soccer, basketball, and tennis may take longer than walking or gym workouts.

When Can You Run after Achilles Tendon Surgery?

Running usually begins around 5 to 6 months post-op, but only if your calf is strong and your range of motion is back. You’ll start with jogging on flat, safe surfaces, and only for short distances. A therapist will help guide you through a return-to-run plan. No sprints or hills at first.

Achilles Tendon Surgery and Rehabilitation in Phoenix, Arizona

If you’ve had Achilles tendon surgery, don’t rush it. Walking again after Achilles tendon surgery takes time, and every step counts. Whether you’re just starting rehab or trying to get back to your old routine, our team at Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers is here to help.

We’ll build a full plan to help you heal, walk again, and stay active. You’ll always know what to do, what to avoid, and what comes next. So, book your visit today. We serve Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and Scottsdale.

Let’s get you back on your feet—stronger than before.

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