What You Can't Do After Biceps Tenodesis: A Comprehensive Guide
Biceps tenodesis is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn biceps tendon. While it alleviates pain and improves function, there are certain activities you must avoid in the post-operative period to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Ignoring these restrictions can lead to re-injury, delayed recovery, or unsatisfactory results. This guide will clarify what activities to avoid and why.
Understanding Biceps Tenodesis:
Before we delve into the restrictions, let's briefly understand the procedure. In a biceps tenodesis, the torn biceps tendon is detached from its original insertion point on the forearm and reattached to a different location on the forearm bone. This stabilizes the biceps muscle, reducing pain and improving elbow function. The recovery process is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes.
H2: What Activities Should I Avoid After Biceps Tenodesis?
The restrictions after biceps tenodesis vary depending on the surgical technique used and your individual healing progress. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines, but here are some general activities to avoid:
H3: Heavy Lifting and Weight-Bearing Activities:
This is perhaps the most crucial restriction. Avoiding heavy lifting (anything that causes significant strain on your elbow and bicep) is critical for preventing re-injury and allowing the tendon to heal properly. This includes lifting groceries, heavy objects at work, or performing strenuous exercises with weights. Your surgeon will specify weight limits and when you can gradually reintroduce lifting.
H3: Reaching Overhead and Behind Your Back:
These movements can put excessive stress on the healing tendon. Avoid reaching for high shelves, combing your hair over your head, or reaching behind your back to fasten clothing, at least initially. Gradually increase range of motion as your surgeon advises.
H3: Prolonged or Repetitive Elbow Bending and Straightening:
Actions that repeatedly bend or straighten your elbow should be limited. This includes activities like typing for extended periods, repetitive hand movements, or engaging in activities that require prolonged elbow flexion or extension.
H3: High-Impact Activities and Sports:
High-impact exercises like running, jumping, or contact sports should be avoided until your surgeon clears you. These activities can put excessive stress on the elbow and shoulder joints, potentially disrupting the healing process.
H3: Activities that cause significant pain or discomfort:
Listen to your body. If an activity causes significant pain or discomfort, stop immediately. Pain is an indicator that you are exceeding your body's capacity for healing.
H2: How Long Do These Restrictions Last?
The duration of restrictions varies from patient to patient. It generally takes several weeks to several months for the tendon to heal sufficiently. Your surgeon will provide a personalized recovery plan and timeline, and regular follow-up appointments are crucial. Expect gradual progression, with restrictions gradually being lifted as your healing progresses.
H2: What Happens if I Don't Follow the Restrictions?
Ignoring post-operative instructions increases the risk of several complications, including:
- Re-injury: This can lead to increased pain, prolonged recovery, and the potential need for further surgery.
- Delayed healing: Pushing the tendon too early can hinder the healing process and prolong your recovery time.
- Poor functional outcome: You may not regain full range of motion or strength in your arm if the tendon does not heal properly.
- Infection: While less common, neglecting proper hygiene and causing undue stress to the surgical site can increase the risk of infection.
H2: When Can I Resume Normal Activities?
This will be determined by your surgeon based on your individual progress and healing. You'll likely start with gentle range-of-motion exercises and gradually increase the intensity and complexity of your activities as your strength and flexibility improve.
Conclusion:
Following your surgeon's instructions diligently is critical for a successful recovery after biceps tenodesis. While the initial period may involve significant restrictions, adhering to these guidelines will greatly increase your chances of achieving optimal results and a full return to your normal activities without complications. Remember, patience and consistency are essential throughout the rehabilitation process. Always consult your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns.
