Accelerometry-derived physical activity following Achilles tendon rupture: A prospective cohort study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Achilles tendon rupture is a significant injury impacting mobility.
• Understanding physical activity recovery is crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate physical activity patterns in the first year post-Achilles tendon rupture.
• To explore the relationship between accelerometry-derived physical activity and patient-reported outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Waist-worn triaxial accelerometers measured steps/day and physical activity (sedentary, light, moderate, vigorous) at 2, 6, and 12 months.
• Patient-reported outcomes included return to sport, UCLA Activity Scale, Tegner score, and Achilles tendon total rupture score.
• Linear mixed models and correlations analyzed associations between physical activity, patient characteristics, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Daily steps and vigorous activity increased significantly from 2 to 6 months.
• Moderate activity increased from 2 to 12 months, reaching population-based normal levels.
• Higher age and BMI were associated with lower physical activity at 12 months.
• Tegner score correlated with moderate physical activity at 12 months.

Conclusions:

• Physical activity, including steps and moderate-to-vigorous exercise, normalized by 6-12 months post-rupture.
• Achilles tendon rupture may not severely compromise overall health-promoting physical activity compared to uninjured individuals.