Surgery for painful elbow joint arthritis, elbow instability, and tendonitis: Elbow replacement, ligament reconstruction and repair, and tendon surgery
Edited By: Thomas Trumble, M.D.
Last updated Friday, September 08, 2006
RehabilitationWhat types of physical therapy do patients require after treatment for elbow instability, and tendonitis for elbow instability, arthritis, and tendonitis ? Elbow instability
Early range of motion is begun within three to seven days
after surgery depending on the type and extent of the reconstruction. These
patients are protected in a long arm splint or split cast so they can remove the
splint and begin a range of motion program in order to avoid elbow stiffness. It
is particularly important to achieve elbow extension (that is to be able to
straighten the elbow fully).
Arthritis
Surgery with joint replacement:
For patients with limited joint replacement such as with the radial head,
exercises are started within two to three days after surgery. For total elbow
replacement surgery, the range of motion exercises are started approximately one
week after surgery. When the patient is not exercising the elbow, a posterior
splint will help support the elbow and prevent injury from contact.
Decompression of tendonitis of the elbow:
These patients are placed
in a splint to allow them to be comfortable and to reduce swelling. Then,
approximately one to two weeks after surgery, general stretching exercises are
begun. The patient is not splinted and allowed to regain their full elbow
motion. Strenuous exercises are delayed for six to eight weeks and full strength
is not expected to return until three months after surgery.
Rehabilitation options: Exercises are both supervised by a therapist and
coupled with an exercise program that can be done at home. The therapist
provides regular measurements and monitors the wound for healing.
What is the usual response to rehabilitation after treatment for elbow instability, and tendonitis for elbow instability, arthritis, and tendonitis ? The patients are generally satisfied with the improvement of their motion and
stability. It is key to have the patients work to maximize their range of motion
within four weeks after the surgery. Delays in achieving full extension or
flexion after this time can result in permanent loss of motion.
Are there risks to rehabilitation after treatment for elbow instability, and tendonitis for elbow instability, arthritis, and tendonitis ? The rehabilitation program is generally achieved with minimal risk, particularly
when supervised by a knowledgeable therapist.How long will rehabilitation after treatment for elbow instability, and tendonitis for elbow instability, arthritis, and tendonitis need to be continued? The duration of a rehabilitation program can extend from six to twelve weeks
depending on the extent of surgery and difficulty in regaining motion. How long after treatment for elbow instability, and tendonitis for elbow instability, arthritis, and tendonitis will patients be able to return to ordinary daily activities? The outpatients are able to perform general activities of daily living with the
operative arm at the side two to three weeks after surgery. Walking with the arm
protected is strongly encouraged; driving should wait until the patient can
perform the necessary functions comfortably and confidently. This may take up to
one month after surgery if performed on the right extremity because of the
demands of operating a vehicle. With the consent of the surgeon, patients with
elbow ligament reconstruction and tendonitis decompression can return to full
activities within six months after surgery. Patients with elbow replacement
surgery should refrain from activities requiring repetitive impact on the
extremity, and even golf and tennis are not advised.
How can the costs of rehabilitation after treatment for elbow instability, and tendonitis for elbow instability, arthritis, and tendonitis be anticipated? The surgeon and therapist should provide information to the patient about the
usual cost of the rehabilitation program. The program is quite cost effective
because it does incorporate a home exercise program along with a supervised
program with a therapist.Surgery for Elbow Instability, Arthritis, and Tendonitis at the University of Washington If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-BONE (2663) to make an appointment.
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