The Process of Tendon Repair: What is it?

What is the process of tendon repair?

Initially, the tendon is very weak and you may experience swelling as your body sends chemicals to heal the tendon as the tissues that have been damaged. You will need to wear coban and tubigrip to reduce this swelling.

For the first ten days, the tendon is particularly weak and held together primarily by the stitches.  Your body is producing new tendon at this time, but its links are weak.

The application of silicone to your scar will minimise excess scarring.

Active movement is introduced to the injured area. Protected forces will be placed along the tendon to help the tendon fibres align themselves and mature.

Your splint is worn for five to six weeks, except in therapy sessions.

You will start strengthing the tendon around four weeks as you start doing light functional activities - nothing over 1kg.

After approximately eight weeks, the wound will start to contract and swelling will naturally reduce. Your hand will start to feel like normal and modified return to work starts.

Your tendon should have complete strength after twelve weeks. The new tendon should be identical to an undamaged tendon.

After your tendon has been repaired surgically, the tendon is very weak and needs to be protected to heal.

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Other considerations

It is important to communicate clearly with your workplace so they understand your injury.

It is recommended to return to work as soon as possible with one hand on suitable duties.

To achieve optimum results, adhere to the exercise regime set by your hand therapist.

It is important to exercise all your other joints so they stay healthy while your hand is not fully functional. (Your therapist will advise you which specific joints need moving and which joints to keep still.)

You should contact your car insurance about when you are able to drive, but usually you will need to wait twelve weeks.

For more information and treatments options, get in touch with us.