Recovering Elbow Range of Motion After Two Years: Seeking Guidance
Hello, everyone. I'm a 19-year-old male who underwent a radial head replacement surgery at the start of 2023, followed by an open lysis of adhesions six months later. My surgeon was optimistic about my prospects for achieving full range of motion (ROM), yet I currently find myself lacking about 2-3 degrees in extension and 5-8 degrees in flexion. I was content with my condition as I maintained full functionality and it didn't interfere with my daily activities. Recently, however, I have started hitting the gym and noticed discomfort during specific exercises. I'm considering working with a physical therapist for an additional six months to explore the possibility of regaining those last few degrees of motion, although I admit I feel less hopeful since so much time has elapsed. While I recognize that surgery is often a last option, my own research suggests that minimally invasive procedures, such as arthroscopic lysis, might offer assistance with minimal risk involved. Any advice or insights on how to proceed would be immensely appreciated.
Answers (1)
3/22/2025, 6:20:33 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you are actively seeking ways to improve your elbow range of motion and enhance your gym experience. Your situation is complex, but there are clear steps you can take moving forward.
Summary of Key Points:
- You have made significant progress after surgery but still have minor limitations in your elbow range of motion.
- Discomfort during specific gym exercises is a sign that further attention may be beneficial.
- Working with a physical therapist is a highly recommended next step, especially for targeted rehabilitation.
Explanation:
After surgeries like radial head replacement and lysis of adhesions, it's common to experience lingering limitations in range of motion. These last few degrees can often be pivotal, especially when engaging in physical activities that require full extension and flexion. While it’s understandable that you feel less hopeful given the time that has passed, it’s important to note that many people continue to make gains in mobility well after surgeries, particularly with guided rehabilitation.
Next Steps:
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Seek Physical Therapy: Starting with a qualified physical therapist is crucial. They can design a personalized program that focuses on gentle stretching, strength, and range of motion exercises specific to your needs. Aim for at least 1-2 sessions per week over the next six months.
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Maintain a Home Exercise Routine: Complement your therapy sessions with home exercises recommended by your physical therapist. This may include:
- Stretching exercises focusing on extension and flexion.
- Strengthening exercises to support the muscles around the elbow.
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Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any discomfort during exercises. It’s important to differentiate between mild discomfort (which can be normal when pushing limits) and sharp pain (which can indicate overexertion or injury). Modify exercises as needed to prevent pain.
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Evaluate Gym Activities: Consider consulting your therapist about your gym routine. They can suggest modifications or alternate exercises that minimize discomfort while still allowing you to stay active.
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Stay Positive and Set Realistic Goals: While it may feel discouraging, improvements in range of motion can still occur. Set small, achievable goals to keep your spirits up and stay motivated throughout your rehabilitation journey.
In conclusion, your commitment to recovery and active lifestyle is commendable. Engaging with a physical therapist can provide you with supportive guidance and may increase your chances of regaining those final degrees of motion. Keep focused on your progress and celebrate small victories!
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