REHAB PROTOCOL · ELBOW

Distal Biceps Tendon Repair Rehab Protocol

By Dr. Shayne Kelly, DO — Fellowship-Trained Sports Medicine Surgeon · Tri-City Orthopedics, Kennewick, WA

The written protocol Dr. Kelly provides to his patients and their physical therapists in the Tri-Cities. Time frames are guidelines — progression is criteria-based, and your own post-op instructions always govern.

⬇ Printable protocol (PDF)Request an appointment →

Educational information, not medical advice. This is not a substitute for the specific instructions Dr. Kelly and your physical therapist give you. Your timeline depends on your surgery, your body, and your progress. Follow your own care team's directions. In an emergency, call 911.

0-First Post-Op Visit

PROTECT THE REPAIR

2–6 Weeks

PROTECTED MOTION

6–9 Weeks

ACTIVE MOTION

9–12 Weeks

STRENGTHEN

0-First Post-Op VisitPROTECT THE REPAIR

•Sling and Splint all times

GOALS Splint per protocol

2–6 WeeksPROTECTED MOTION

•Begin Active Assist ROM; initially limit extension to 45°; advance to full extension by 6 weeks.
•Splint all times other than exercises; wrist/Shoulder ROM exercises

GOALS No loading

6–9 WeeksACTIVE MOTION

•May discontinue elbow Splint; continue passive/Active assist ROM elbow; begin biceps isometrics; begin cuff/Deltoid isometrics
•Maintain Wrist/Shoulder ROM

GOALS Active flexion/supination

9–12 WeeksSTRENGTHEN

•Begin Active Elbow Flexion against gravity; maintain ROM elbow/Wrist/Shoulder
•Advance to resistive Strengthening Deltoid/Rotator Cuff; 3–6 Mo:
•Begin gradual elbow flexion strengthening and advance as tolerated

GOALS Graduated loading

Return to Sport & Discharge Criteria

•Full elbow/forearm ROM; strength ≥90% of opposite side
•Gradual return to heavy lifting or sport when cleared by Dr. Kelly

Time frames are guidelines — progress when phase goals are met, per Dr. Kelly and the treating therapist.

When to call

Increasing pain, numbness, redness, drainage from the wound, or fever/chills — call (509) 460-5588. After hours, the answering service can reach Dr. Kelly. If your issue feels emergent, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Physical therapists

Treating one of Dr. Kelly's patients? Download the printable protocol for your clinic, and call (509) 460-5588 with questions about an individual patient's progression.

⬇ Protocol PDF

Related protocols

ELBOWUCL Reconstruction (Tommy John)SHOULDERRotator Cuff Repair SHOULDERShoulder Stabilization (Bankart)

Back on the field starts with a plan.

Fellowship-trained sports medicine care in Kennewick, Richland & Pasco.

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