I just ruptured my Achilles’ tendon but it is not a complete tear. I have two choices according to the doctor
1. Surgery, in a boot for at least 8 weeks and a lot of rehab, a total of about 6 months to heal
2. No surgery, boot with lifts up and then back down for at least 8 weeks and then rehab, a total of about 6 months to heal

There is a chance of another rupture without surgery but a small chance with surgery.

I’m 55, very active and don’t want to lose that opportunity. Have any of you had this and what course did you take?

Any help is appreciated.

Having had a full year a few years back in my early 40s, I opted for no surgery. The recovery time with surgery was only a few weeks quicker. The downside to surgery is the scar and potential issues, rubbing etc causing on going issues.

I would have thought with a partial tear it's a no trainer to not have surgery as the Achilles will heal itself.

Doctor said it was about 85%. I agree if it were 50% or less but with not much remaining, I'm more concerned about recovery.

I was in about for 10weeks,being able to start some rehab at 8 weeks out of the boot. You will likely loose a lot of calf muscle and strength. With consistent rehab, which in my case has become part of daily life still years on. It's no biggy just lots of different types of calf raises and mobility work.

I was back racing within 9 months competitively after a very careful run walk progression and swimming and biking a little more.

My vote would be let the body so it's own thing and not have surgery.

My understanding is that recovery without surgery will be fine, the body is amazing. A return to activity is down to the rehab, being cautious not to do too much too soon and in my case it is now an integral part of my day to day training. A few years on after a complete rupture I'm training the same and as much as I want too. It's not holding me back.

Just curious, can you stand on your toes on the ruptured side?

Yes, full range of motion. It's nots as strong as the non ruptured side, but is continually getting stronger and increasing in size. It's not stopping me from doing anything and have non concerns.