Distal Biceps Tendon Repair Rehabilitation Protocol
PHASE I: (WEEK 0-3)
Splint/Brace
- Post-op splint at all times for 1 week
- Transition to hinged elbow brace locked at 90° after 1 week
- Brace is unlocked only for ROM exercise (settings 30°-130°)
ROM/Therapeutic Exercise
- Passive ROM exercises from 30°-130°, 5-6 times per day for 25 repetitions
- Achieve full forearm supination and pronation
- Shoulder, wrist, hand exercises encouraged
- Edema control/Scar management
- Apply ice after exercises
PHASE II: (WEEK 3-6)
Splint/Brace
- Hinged elbow brace at all times except exercise or hygiene
- Unlock brace according to ROM progression
ROM/Therapeutic Exercise
- Week 3: Active extension limit changed to 20°. Passive flexion may be increased to full flexion as tolerated. Active wrist flexion/extension. Active ROM of hand in neutral position. Supination/pronation through pain-free range.
- Week 4: Active extension limit changed to 10°. Continue same exercises. Putty may be used 3 times per day to improve grip strength. Gentle pulley while limiting elbow extension to 10°.
- Week 5: Full active extension is permitted. Supine scapula stabilization with no weight.
- Week 6: Passive elbow extension exercises may be started as necessary. Light strengthening exercises started with light tubing or 1 kg weights for elbow flexion, extension, forearm rotation, and wrist flexion/extension. Shoulder theraband strengthening exercises started. Supine scapula stabilization with 1 kg weight.
PHASE III: (WEEK 6-6 MONTHS)
Splint/Brace
- Discontinue at 6 weeks from surgery
ROM/Therapeutic Exercise
- Gradual increase of strength program so that patient is using full weights at 3 months. Potentially up to 6 months before return to heavy work.
- Continue ROM as necessary.