Dealing with a Distal Bicep Rupture for Nearly Seven Months
Hello everyone, my name is Kevin, a 19-year-old male standing 6’2” and weighing 90kg. As indicated in the title, I have been living with a ruptured distal bicep on my left arm for the past seven months. Unfortunately, due to some medical oversight, I missed the chance for prompt surgical intervention that is typically recommended in such cases. After consulting with my orthopedic specialist, I discovered I have only two options: I can either undergo several months of physiotherapy or opt for surgery that would involve taking a graft from my Achilles tendon to reconnect it to the bicep tendon. This surgical option, however, carries significant risks, including potential nerve damage and the chance of infection. Being an avid sports enthusiast before this injury, I am reaching out for any advice or insights anyone may have on my situation. I’ve also been researching peptides like BPC-157, but I’m uncertain about the best course of action. Ultimately, I am inclined to select the surgical route, as it appears to be a more immediate solution compared to prolonged physical therapy. Nonetheless, I harbor concerns about the long-term implications if complications arise—specifically, how well my arm might function if nerve issues occur. Would I still be capable of performing manual labor jobs, for instance? I would greatly appreciate any personal experiences, advice, or guidance you all might be able to share. Thank you all for your help in advance!
Answers (1)
3/23/2025, 1:50:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation, Kevin. It sounds challenging, and I can understand your desire to regain functionality in your arm as quickly as possible. Here, I'll summarize the key points and provide you with some helpful insights moving forward.
Main Points:
- You have a ruptured distal bicep that has not been surgically repaired for seven months.
- You face a choice between surgery using a graft from your Achilles tendon and several months of physical therapy.
- Concerns about potential complications and long-term arm function are weighing on your decision.
Explanation:
A distal bicep rupture can impact your arm's strength and function, especially since you've had it for several months without surgical repair. Surgery may offer the best chance for full recovery, allowing you to return to sports and manual labor. However, it's essential to weigh the benefits against the risks, which include nerve damage and infection.
Physical therapy is a less invasive option that aims to strengthen the muscles and improve functionality over time, but it can be a lengthy process and might not restore full strength or perform as well as surgical options could.
Next Steps:
- Consult Further: Before making a decision, seek a second opinion from another orthopedic specialist to understand all possible options and outcomes clearly.
- Research Rehabilitation: If opting for surgery, learn about the rehabilitation protocols following the procedure. This information will prepare you for what to expect post-surgery, especially regarding physical therapy.
- Understand Potential Complications: Discuss the risks of surgery in detail with your doctor, particularly the likelihood of nerve damage and its implications. It may be helpful to ask about the recovery percentage for people in similar situations.
- Monitor Symptoms: If you choose to wait or pursue therapy, keep a close eye on any changes in pain or function. Documenting these can help assess your progress or need for surgery down the line.
- Explore Peptides Carefully: Regarding peptides like BPC-157, it's crucial to discuss these with a healthcare provider, as their efficacy and safety can vary, and more research is needed in terms of their use in tendon healing.
Take your time to weigh your options. It’s essential to make a well-informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and recovery goals. If you have further questions or need support through this process, feel free to reach out.
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