Ultrasound confirmed completely detached Achilles tendon. Standard procedure now is to splint the injury, foot down in planar position and let the tendon grow back naturally. Surgery has higher risks of infection, with similar results although one month faster (for pro athletes). Plaster split is actually just on the top, flannel wrap is open to the bottom. Will return in 19 days, plan is to switch to an fibreglass walking air cast with lifts that get lowered every 2 weeks. Splints and casts for 3 months, then son #3 advises lots of months of stretching, from his similar experience. No pain today, will have to learn to use crutches, otherwise moving in a fencing stance. (Fracture Clinic, St. Michael's Hospital, Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario) 20171227