Phase I:
0–2 weeks post op
- Healing phase with protection in a splint, elbow flexed.
Phase II:
2–6 weeks HEP Only
- D/C splint. Wrist brace in neutral position until 6 weeks postop – avoid wrist extension/flexion.
- May do active and passive elbow range of motion to tolerance with wrist brace. Avoid repetitious use of hand (i.e. keyboard/ texting typing, strenuous gripping)
Phase III:
6–12 weeks
- Begin formal physical therapy.
- May D/C brace at 6 weeks postop and begin active wrist extension/flexion.
- Increase elbow and wrist ROM to full with emphasis on stretching/flexibility exercises.
- Isometric hand/wrist/elbow/shoulder strengthening initially.
- Progress to concentric and eccentric strengthening exercises for elbow, forearm, and wrist.
- May begin plyometrics.
Phase IV:
3+ months
- Progress isotonic strengthening
- Initiate sports related drills and functional strengthening exercises
- Return to full activity and work (manual labor duties) by 4 months postop.
*Please note: The instructions for rehabilitation protocols are general guidelines to be followed; however, any written or verbal instructions provided by Dr. Allen or his staff should supersede the instructions above and should be followed. If you have questions regarding your rehabilitation protocol, please contact a member of our team.
