How do you rehab after radial head excision?

Answered by Paul Giordano

When I underwent a radial head excision surgery, the rehabilitation process was crucial to regain strength and mobility in my arm and elbow. The initial phase of physical therapy focused on managing pain and swelling. The therapist used ice, which helped to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort. I found this particularly beneficial in the first few days after the surgery when the pain was more intense.

Electrical stimulation was also used during my early sessions. This involved placing electrodes on my arm, which delivered small electrical currents to stimulate the muscles. The purpose was to help reduce muscle atrophy and maintain some level of muscle activation during the initial healing phase.

Another technique used during my rehabilitation was massage. The therapist would gently massage the surrounding muscles and tissues to improve blood circulation and reduce muscle tension. This helped to alleviate some of the stiffness and promote healing in the area.

As the healing progressed, my physical therapy sessions gradually shifted towards exercises to increase movement and mobility. These exercises were specifically designed to target the muscles around the arm and elbow. Initially, the movements were quite gentle and focused on improving range of motion.

One exercise I found particularly helpful was using a therapy band to perform resistance exercises. The therapist would wrap the band around my hand and guide me through various motions, such as flexion and extension of the elbow. This helped to strengthen the muscles and improve control over the joint.

In addition to resistance exercises, my therapist also incorporated stretching and flexibility exercises into my rehabilitation program. These exercises aimed to improve the overall flexibility of the arm and elbow joint. I would perform gentle stretches, holding them for a few seconds, to gradually increase the range of motion over time.

Throughout the rehabilitation process, my therapist closely monitored my progress and adjusted the exercises accordingly. As my strength and mobility improved, the intensity and complexity of the exercises increased. The goal was to gradually build up strength and control in the arm and elbow, while also preventing any further injury.

The rehabilitation process after a radial head excision surgery involves a combination of pain management techniques, such as ice and electrical stimulation, as well as exercises to improve strength and mobility. It is important to follow the guidance of a qualified physical therapist and adhere to the prescribed exercises to achieve optimal recovery.