What Can You Not Do After Bicep Tenodesis?
Biceps tenodesis is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn biceps tendon. While it alleviates pain and restores some function, recovery requires careful adherence to post-operative instructions. Ignoring these can lead to complications and hinder the healing process. This guide details activities to avoid after a biceps tenodesis. Understanding these restrictions is crucial for a successful recovery.
Immediately After Surgery (First Few Weeks):
The initial period post-surgery is the most critical. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions tailored to your individual case, but generally, you'll need to avoid the following:
- Heavy Lifting: This is paramount. Avoid any activity that requires significant force or weight bearing on your affected arm. This includes carrying groceries, lifting children, or engaging in strenuous household chores.
- Pushing and Pulling: These motions strain the healing tendon and can disrupt the surgical site.
- Range of Motion Exercises (without guidance): While some movement is encouraged, avoid forceful or uncontrolled range of motion. Only perform exercises specifically prescribed by your physical therapist.
- Driving: Until you regain sufficient strength and control in your arm, driving is unsafe. Your surgeon will advise when it’s appropriate to resume driving.
- Contact Sports: Absolutely avoid contact sports and activities that risk impacting the arm. This includes any activity where a forceful impact to the arm could occur.
What About Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)?
You'll likely need help with many ADLs initially:
- Dressing and Grooming: Reaching overhead or behind your back may be difficult.
- Eating: Using utensils might require adaptation initially.
- Bathing: You might need assistance showering or washing your hair.
During the Rehabilitation Phase (Weeks to Months):
Even as you progress through physical therapy, you still need to avoid certain activities:
- Overexertion: Pushing yourself too hard too soon is a common mistake. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
- Activities that Cause Pain: Pain is a crucial warning sign. Avoid any activity that causes significant discomfort in your shoulder or elbow.
- Certain Types of Exercise (without PT approval): Only perform exercises approved by your physical therapist. Avoid exercises that put excessive stress on the biceps tendon, even after you start regaining strength.
Long-Term Restrictions (Months to Years):
While you'll eventually regain significant function, some activities might always be restricted to a degree:
- High-Impact Activities: High-impact activities like running or jumping may cause discomfort or reinjury.
- Heavy Repetitive Lifting: Jobs or hobbies involving frequent heavy lifting might need to be modified or avoided altogether.
What Happens if I Don't Follow Instructions?
Ignoring post-operative instructions can lead to several undesirable outcomes:
- Re-rupture of the Biceps Tendon: This requires additional surgery and a longer recovery period.
- Delayed Healing: Failing to follow the prescribed regimen can significantly prolong your recovery time.
- Chronic Pain: Improper healing can lead to persistent pain and discomfort.
- Loss of Function: Your range of motion and strength may not fully recover if you do not adhere to your rehabilitation program.
How Long Does It Take to Recover?
Recovery time varies depending on individual factors, including age, overall health, and the extent of the surgery. It typically ranges from several months to a year or more before you can return to most activities.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your surgeon and physical therapist for personalized instructions and guidance regarding your specific situation. They are the best sources to determine what you can and cannot do after your biceps tenodesis.
