There are two balancing goals in rehabilitation after distal triceps repair.
The goal is to ensure adequate healing of the tendon back to the bone while preventing stiffness in the elbow.
Because the elbow is prone to stiffness if immobilized, early range of motion is critically important.
Avoid active triceps activity until 6 weeks after surgery, and avoid strengthening the triceps until 3 months after surgery.
Work and Activity Restrictions
• 0–6 weeks: No work, no use of operative hand
• 6 weeks–3 months: No lifting or carrying greater than 5 pounds
• 3 months: Lifting up to 10 pounds
• 4 months: Lifting up to 20 pounds
• 6 months: Return to full duty
0–2 Weeks: Immobilization and Wound Rest
• Immobilization at 45 degrees of flexion
• Hand and wrist exercises permitted
2–6 Weeks: Protect Repair and Maintain Elbow ROM
• Patient-directed passive extension
• Physical therapist–guided active flexion (limit to 90 degrees of flexion)
• Wrist and hand exercises permitted
• Wear sling for 3 weeks; after 3 weeks, wear sling outside the house only
6 Weeks–3 Months: Regain Full Elbow ROM
• Continue exercises with active and passive ROM without restriction
• Discontinue sling after 6 weeks
3 Months+: Strengthen
• Continue stretching if range of motion is less than the contralateral arm
• Begin band strengthening exercises
