One of the most common physical struggles for kids on the autism spectrum is an action referred to as "toe walking." Walking this way keeps the heel off the floor, which can actually hinder the growth of the Achilles tendon. Since the tendon plays a vital role in your ability to walk correctly, this can lead to long-term issues with motor skills and mobility. Many doctors recommend surgery to lengthen the tendon, followed by physical therapy to encourage the child to walk properly. Here's a look at what you should know about the physiotherapy recommended after surgery.

Initial Therapy Process

Your child's therapy will start almost immediately after surgery. He or she will be fitted with a cast for the leg that covers the foot and reaches as far up as the base of the knee. This is important, because it not only sets the position of the foot correctly, but it supports the muscle tissue in the calf and around the Achilles tendon.

Once the cast has been fitted and placed, the medical staff will start physical therapy sessions, including basic mobility lessons to teach your child how to move with the cast in place. You'll probably be provided with a series of stretches and exercises that you'll have to do at home after the hospital discharge. Some of the things you can expect right after surgery include straight-leg raises and weight-bearing exercises to help reinforce muscle strength.

Extended Physical Therapy

Once the cast is removed, the physical therapy requirements will gradually increase in demand. Your child's physical therapist will start foot-flexing exercises to help stretch the muscle tissue at the ankle. Depending on how extensive the surgery was, there may also be some electrical stimulation to help rebuild the muscle.

As therapy and recovery progress, your child is going to gradually regain movement in the foot and rebuild muscle strength. As this happens, the physical therapist is going to encourage more weight placement on the foot. Once the foot can support your child's weight, he or she can start practicing the proper placement for heel-to-toe steps.

This is an important part of the therapy process. The physical therapist will watch how the foot moves, including the basic alignment of the foot to the hip. The movement and position of the foot will determine the best stretching exercises and activities for your child to support that tendon repair.

A complete recovery to general mobility can take time. With the help of a physical therapist who understands toe walking and Achilles surgery, your child will be able to learn how to walk properly. If you have questions about what equipment your child may need for the therapy, contact a rehab supplies distributor.