Surgery Recap: Seeking Recovery Experiences After Tricep Tendon Repair
I underwent surgery yesterday to address a completely torn tricep tendon. About three weeks ago, I experienced a fall while ascending the outdoor stairs at my residence, resulting in the injury. At 37 years old, I maintain a generally healthy and active lifestyle. Unfortunately, the surgery involved reattaching my tricep tendon to the bone, and the nerve block has worn off, leading to significant pain since I woke up this morning. I feel quite uneasy about the path to recovery and am eager to hear from anyone who has faced a similar situation or knows someone who has. I'm someone who enjoys staying active—lifting weights, running, playing golf, and practicing yoga. My children are also involved in various sports, and I love playing basketball and throwing a ball around with them. I’m curious to know how long it took for others to resume their pre-injury activities and regain their normal routine. Any insights or experiences you could share would be immensely helpful and appreciated.
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 8:50:32 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely normal to feel uneasy after surgery, especially following a significant procedure like a tricep tendon repair. Recovery experiences can vary, but I understand that you want to regain your active lifestyle as soon as possible.
Overview
Following your surgery, managing pain effectively and adhering to a structured recovery plan are critical for a successful return to your activities. Here are some insights into the recovery process and what to expect.
Understanding Recovery
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Pain Management: It's common to experience pain post-surgery, especially as nerve blocks wear off. Ensure you use prescribed pain medications as directed. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help, but always check with your surgeon before adding any medications.
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Movement and Mobility: After surgery, your arm may be in a sling for a few weeks. It's essential to avoid using your arm for heavy lifting or strenuous activities during this time. Gentle movements and stretches can help maintain mobility once your doctor approves them, often around two weeks post-surgery.
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Physical Therapy: Most patients start physical therapy within a few weeks post-op. This is crucial for regaining strength and range of motion. Your therapist will design a program tailored to your recovery stage and goals, including basic movements to progressively strengthen your arm.
Specific Steps to Consider
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Pain Management: Follow your medication plan. Consider using ice packs for 15-20 minutes at a time to help with swelling and pain relief after surgery.
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Follow Post-Op Instructions: Adhere to all your surgeon's instructions regarding rest, mobility, and wound care. Keep your follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.
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Gradual Return to Activity: Expect an initial period (typically 6-8 weeks) of limited movement, after which you can gradually reintroduce light activities like walking. Depending on your healing and therapy progress, you might be able to resume light sports (like golf) within 3-4 months but heavier activities (like lifting weights or basketball) may take 6 months or longer.
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Connect with Others: Consider joining support groups or forums with individuals who have undergone similar surgeries; hearing about their experiences can be reassuring and provide practical tips.
Monitoring Recovery
Keep a log of your pain levels, mobility progress, and any difficulties you experience. This can be helpful during follow-up appointments.
Remember, every person's healing experience is unique. Stay patient and allow yourself the necessary time to recover. If you have specific questions or concerns about the recovery process, feel free to ask!
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