Tendon rupture
A tendon rupture is a tear, partial or complete, of one of the strong cords that join muscle to bone. Read more about tendon rupture →
If symptoms are sudden, severe or getting worse, contact your GP or NHS 111.
Where are you up to?
The NHS reports waiting times by specialty, not by individual condition, so this is the orthopaedics wait, updated August 2026. Enter a postcode to see the hospitals near you.
orthopaedics waiting times by hospital
| Trust | Location | Typical wait |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust | Reading | 5 weeks |
| Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust | Bath and North East Somerset | 12 weeks |
| Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust | Liverpool | 13 weeks |
| George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust | Nuneaton and Bedworth | 13 weeks |
| South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust | Warwick | 14 weeks |
| University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust | Birmingham | 15 weeks |
| South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust | Middlesbrough | 15 weeks |
| University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust | Camden | 16 weeks |
About tendon rupture
A tendon rupture is a tear, partial or complete, of one of the strong cords that join muscle to bone. Common ones include the Achilles at the back of the ankle and tendons around the shoulder or knee. It often happens suddenly during sport or a fall, sometimes with a snapping sensation, and can cause pain, swelling, weakness and difficulty using the limb.
How it is treated
Treatment depends on which tendon has torn and how complete the tear is. Some ruptures heal well without surgery, supported in a cast, boot or splint and then rehabilitation to rebuild strength and movement. Others are repaired with surgery, especially in more active people or where the tear is complete. A scan such as ultrasound or MRI often guides the decision, and physiotherapy is central to recovery whichever route is chosen.
After treatment
Recovery takes time, often several months, and following the rehabilitation plan closely is what restores strength and lowers the chance of it tearing again. Returning to sport is usually gradual and guided by your team.
Sources: NHS: Achilles tendon rupture. Last updated October 2026.
General information only, not medical advice. Wait or Pay is independent and is not the NHS. Your GP decides what care, if any, you need.