Can a torn distal bicep tendon heal without surgery?

Nonsurgical Treatment Most people can recover without surgery from a shoulder or bicep tendon tear. The pain from a biceps tendon tear can resolve itself over time and minor arm weakness may never bother the patient.

Do you have to have surgery for a torn bicep tendon?

Distal biceps tendon ruptures typically require surgical fixation to restore range of motion and strength to the elbow. This procedure is an open surgical procedure which can be performed on an outpatient basis. The goal is to reattach the tendon to the radius bone using either sutures or anchor with sutures.

What happens if you don’t fix distal bicep tendon?

Pedro Beredjiklian MD: In my experience, weakness in supination, fatigue pain, and deformity are predictable consequences of untreated distal biceps tendon ruptures. Patients who present to me for treatment of an old, untreated distal biceps rupture have one or more of these symptoms.

How long does distal bicep surgery take?

Surgery usually takes about 1 hour. The tendon is repaired through a small incision in the front of the elbow. Sometimes, a second incision in the back of the elbow may be needed. After surgery, a splint or brace is used to protect the repair for a short time while it heals.

What is a distal biceps tendon rupture?

Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture Ruptures of the distal tendon near the elbow usually occur when an unexpected force is applied to a bent arm. This is most commonly an activity such as lifting a heavy rock or doing weights at the gym.

How long does it take to recover from distal bicep surgery?

It takes about 3 to 4 months for your biceps muscle to heal. You may be able to do easier daily activities in 2 to 3 weeks, as long as you don’t use your injured arm.

How long can you wait to repair a torn bicep?

Recovery time depends on the severity of the bicep tendon tear, as well as type of treatment. Even mild injuries can take at least two months to heal. It often takes four to five months before you can start returning to normal activities.

How long can you wait to repair a tendon?

Delayed tendon repair can be performed within 3 weeks to one month after injury, but the repair is preferably done in initial several days of delay.

Is distal bicep surgery safe?

Conclusions: Distal biceps repair is associated with a 7.5\% major complication rate and 4.5\% reoperation rate. The use of a 2-incision technique for repair increases the risk of radioulnar synostosis.

What is recovery time for distal bicep tendon repair?

Rehab usually lasts for 2 months. It takes about 3 to 4 months for your biceps muscle to heal. You may be able to do easier daily activities in 2 to 3 weeks, as long as you don’t use your injured arm. Most people who work at a desk job can return to work in 1 to 2 weeks.

How common is distal bicep tendon rupture?

The incidence of distal biceps tendon ruptures is 1.2 per 100,000 patients, with the majority in the dominant elbow of men who smoke and who are in their fourth decade of life.

What is the recovery time for a distal bicep tendon repair?

Total healing time for any injury or surgical repair is usually one year. Limitations vary based on distal or proximal repair. Both repairs for a biceps tendon rupture will require the use of a post-operative sling for up to 4 weeks.

How long can you Wait to repair a torn bicep tendon?

In my experience, active individuals who have surgery to reattach a distal biceps tendon rupture early usually regain full range of motion by 4-6 weeks and can start strengthening quickly. Sports might be held off for 3-4 months, but they usually have full function without limitation then.

What treatment is needed for a biceps tendon rupture?

How is biceps tendonitis treated? Cold packs or ice will reduce swelling and pain caused by tendonitis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen will help relieve swelling and pain. Your doctor may also recommend rest. In some cases, your doctor may refer you for physical therapy to help your shoulder or elbow recover.

What is a biceps tendon rupture and how is it fixed?

Proximal biceps tendon ruptures can be treated conservatively with physical therapy and anti-inflammatories. Surgery is considered when a patient continues to have pain despite conservative measures.

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