You will wear a sling or shoulder brace after biceps tenodesis to limit arm movement.
If you tear the tendon that connects your biceps muscle to your shoulder joint, you will need surgery to reattach the tendon. Biceps tenodesis is the procedure by which your orthopedic surgeon resecures the torn tendon to a bone just outside your shoulder. To ensure a good surgical outcome, it is important to follow your surgeon's directions for postoperative care.
Instructions
1. Take prescription pain medications as recommended by your doctor. While you are taking these medications, you should avoid engaging in activities for which you need to be fully alert.
2. Wear your arm sling as directed by your doctor; slings must usually be worn for at least eight to 10 days following your operation. A sling limits arm movement, which allows your biceps tendon to heal. If your doctor sends you home with a shoulder immobilizer, carefully follow his instructions for using the device.
3. Apply ice to your shoulder for at least eight hours a day. Although eight hours per day is the minimum, keep ice on the affected shoulder as often as you can tolerate for the eight to 10 days following your biceps tenodesis surgery.
4. Replace surgical-site bandages or dressings daily. Follow your doctor's orders for wound management regarding cleaning and redressing or rebandaging the site.
5. Avoid bathing or showering for five days following your surgery. It is important to keep the surgical site dry during this time.
6. Abstain from lifting anything heavy for approximately six weeks after your surgery. A good rule of thumb is to avoid lifting anything heavier than a coffee cup.
7. Avoid engaging in any activity that increases your risk for falls. It is imperative to avoid falling while you are healing from your surgery.
8. Follow your doctor's instructions for exercising your fingers, hands and wrists. These exercises will help you maintain the proper range of motion in your fingers, hands and wrists during the postoperative period when you are not moving them normally.
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