Sling | When will I go home? | What can I do? | What can’t I do? |
| 4 weeks | You will be discharged on the same day as the operation | Gentle elbow range of movement | No lifting, no pushing, no pulling |
Acute phase (0-4 weeks)
Goals
- Pain and oedema control while protecting healing tissues
- Prevent joint contractures
- Independence and compliance in splint wear
Rehabilitation
- Progression from gravity assisted elbow extension, to active assist, to active range of movement of elbow extension
- Active range of movement of shoulder, wrist, and hand
- Light putty exercises for grip once full ROM of digits is restored
- Oedema control
- No lifting, pushing, pulling
Criteria for progression
- Pain control
Intermediate phase (4-8 weeks)
Goals
- Restore ROM in elbow
Rehabilitation
- Advance to elbow flexion after 4 weeks
- Increase elbow range of movement including supination & pronation
- If >20degrees lack of extension or elbow flexion <130 degrees at 8 weeks add a static elbow brace
Late phase (>8 weeks)
Goals
- Restore full range of movement in elbow
Rehabilitation
- Home exercise program to maintain range of movement, strength, proprioception and function
Guidelines for return to functional activities
Driving | Lifting | Swimming | Golf |
| 8 weeks | 3 months | 4 weeks | 3 months |
